Build practical skills and prepare for certification with flexible online training and expert support.
Cybersecurity Bootcamp
03-06
Duration
Months
Start Date
None required
Experience
If you’re new to cybersecurity, certifications can be a great way to show employers you’ve got the skills. This bootcamp is aligned with the CompTIA Security+, Network+, and CySA+ exams, some of the most widely respected credentials in the industry. That means as you learn, you’re also preparing for certifications that can validate your knowledge, help you stand out, and open doors to real job opportunities.
CompTIA-Aligned
for industry certification
Commitment to quality and growth
88
Employment rate*
%
178
Salary growth*
%
86
Transitioned into tech*
%
13,000
Student population*
+
Real stories of success
From beginner
to IT analyst
Rana valued the mentorship she received throughout the bootcamp, which helped her stay motivated, overcome challenges, and enter a new field.
Rana Tmoumen
From high school graduate to software developer
Robert came in with self-taught coding basics. The course gave him structure and practical experience, leading to his first role in tech.
Robert Truter
Why pursue a career in cybersecurity?
*According to the 2024 HyperionDev Graduate Outcomes Report. This report combines the student experience from global bootcamp participants, not limited to the University of Chicago.
Growing global need
By 2025, 3.5 million cybersecurity jobs will be unfilled worldwide, driving demand for specialists.
Career stability
Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing tech fields, with strong job security and room to grow.
High earning potential
Cybersecurity roles offer top-tier salaries, with faster growth for those who earn certifications.
This program offers a structured path from foundational skills to advanced techniques in data science. As you move through each level, you’ll apply your learning to practical projects that mirror the kind of work cybersecurity professionals do on the job, such as identifying threats, testing vulnerabilities, and securing systems.
What you'll learn
Level 1:
Python Basics
for Cybersecurity
Capstones: Investment Calculator, Text Processor, Object-Oriented App
Learn the fundamentals of cybersecurity, compliance frameworks, and cybercrime. Build core Python skills with loops, functions, and object-oriented programming. Develop secure, reusable code and work with files and data structures.
Level 2:
Systems, Tools,
Hashing, and Ciphers
Capstone: Ciphers Project
Use Kali Linux and Bash scripting to automate tasks. Build basic web pages and explore encryption, hashing, and PKI principles to understand online security foundations.
Level 3:
Databases,
Networks, and Forensics
Capstones: Secure Database System, Cybersecurity Case Study
Secure databases against common attacks, understand network threats, and explore ethical hacking. Learn digital forensics techniques to investigate and respond to security incidents.
*DISCLAIMER: Curriculum content may be adjusted to reflect industry changes or instructional needs.
Experience, support, and direction to take your next professional step with confidence.
Skills with real career impact
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
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.
Nick Feamster
Neubauer Professor of Computer Science
Potential career paths
After completing the bootcamp, you'll be ready for cybersecurity roles across a variety of industries and settings:
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.
Aligned
Ways to manage your tuition
Full price
Tuition savings
Limited-time Offer
Pay upfront
Upfront fee
Pay upfront to secure this limited-time offer until April 30.
Most popular
Pay monthly
From
Pay your tuition over time with flexible monthly installments.
per month
$200
*The University of Chicago 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.
Student loan
Flexible repayment options, including plans from $25 per month, interest-only payments, and full deferment.
Payment plan
Pay your tuition in interest-free monthly installments, with up to 24 months to pay.
Veteran benefits
GI Bill® benefits cover up to 100% tuition for eligible veterans and families.
VA Education
Benefits
Workforce funding
Qualify for federal aid that may cover up to 100% of your tuition. Eligibility may include:
- Adults ages 18+ (priority for veterans, low-income applicants, and those with basic skills gaps)
- Dislocated workers (collecting unemployment or recently laid off)
- Youth ages 16–24 facing employment barriers
Student loan
Interest rates as low as 0%, with a fast, fully online application. Strong credit history not required.
External resources are available to help you finance your education.*
Review the options below to determine whether you qualify for support toward your tuition.
Financial Aid and Funding Options
Earn a 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 the course and receive your UChicago credential.
Frequently asked questions
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.
Still unsure? Book a call with our admissions team, and we’ll help you decide.
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.
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.
If you study part-time, plan to dedicate 10–20 hours per week to complete the program in approximately six months.
Full-time learners can complete the program in around three months, dedicating about 40 hours per week.
If needed, you may have the option to adjust your pace and extend your timeline.
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.
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 real career in cybersecurity. Thousands have done it, and you can too.
The University of Chicago is partnering with online education provider HyperionDev to offer a portfolio of high-impact, outcomes-focused online programs. These programs are provided by HyperionDev and quality assured by UChicago to leverage their thought leadership in technical practice developed over decades of expertise.
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