As our private and professional lives become increasingly tied to the web, the need for cyber security specialists grows. Now, more than ever, we need professionals with the skills necessary to keep our digital information safe and secure. When you study Cyber Security at University of Bridgeport, you’ll gain the hands-on knowledge and training needed to achieve a rewarding career in this rapidly growing field.

University of Bridgeport is excited to announce it is extending the availability of the Cyber Security Certificate thanks to a second Tech Accelerator Grant. This 12-week program will run from January 22, 2024, through April 8, 2024. Those who have previously completed the first three courses in the program have the opportunity to take CYBER 504, Advanced Cyber Security: Networks and Servers.

Application deadline is December 27, 2023.

Your path to an in-demand career in Cyber Security

Across the country, there is an increasing need for cyber security specialists. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the need for information security analysts is expected to grow by 35% over the next eight years, which is seven times more than the average career growth rate. Moreover, this professional pathway can lead you to a higher salary — in 2021, information security analysts earned an average pay of over $100,000.

Gain hands-on experience with innovative technology

When you study Cyber Security at UB, you fast-track your journey to a flexible career in a cutting-edge field. In fact, once you begin your classes, you’re less than three months away from becoming a professional. Our non-degree Cyber Security program consists of just three classes: cyber security, ethical hacking, and network security. Through your coursework, you’ll gain hands-on practice with today’s most advanced cyber security technologies, developing the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the field.

Curriculum

This Cyber Security program consists of three online courses. After successfully completing all three courses, you’ll have the opportunity to take CYBER 504: Advanced Cyber Security – Networking and Servers.

Cyber Security (CYBER 502)

This course offers a comprehensive overview of Cyber Security. Through your coursework, you will develop the tools, techniques, and defense mechanisms you’ll need to counter attackers. The course introduces the fundamentals of network security, as well as new and emerging topics. You will participate in interactive learning exercises, applying the concepts you’re studying to real world situations.

Ethical Hacking (CYBER 501)

The Ethical Hacking course is designed to help you master your ability to test the overall security of information systems. Through hands-on activities and training, you will learn to identify and exploit weaknesses within information systems. By understanding how hackers operate, you’ll develop the skills to set up strong countermeasures and defensive systems — protecting and securing important information and data.

Network Security (Cyber 503)

In this course, you will learn the principles and practices of network security through hands-on practice using tools such as Block Cipher, Firewalls, Hash Functions, and more.

Advanced Cyber Security: Security Networks and Servers (CYBER 504)

This course is designed to prepare you for a career in Information Security, Network and Cloud, or IT Service Management. Advance your career with the knowledge and skills you need to be an informed cyber security professional. To take this course, you must have completed CYBER 501, CYBER 502, and CYBER 503 or sit for an assessment interview with program faculty.

Benefit from a flexible schedule

At University of Bridgeport, we understand how difficult it can be to find the time to take classes

— that’s why our Cyber Security program is offered entirely online. With our 100% online course format, you can earn your certificate on your time, tailoring your learning to your own personal schedule.

Admission Requirements:

Program prerequisites:

• High school diploma, GED, or an equivalent credential
• Ability to use simulation tools

Required materials:

• Completed application for enrollment or by contacting Siobhan Blaze at sblaze@bridgeport.edu
• Submit proof of high school completion or its equivalent
• CV, resume, or relevant certificates
• 1-2 paragraph personal statement explaining why you are interested in this certificate and how it applies to your career aspirations
• Refundable admissions deposit: For spring courses, there is a refundable $150 fee to apply to the program that must be paid before the start of classes. You will receive this deposit back after all course requirements are verified.

*Current UB students should contact Siobhan Blaze for more information on how to enroll.

University of Bridgeport’s Cyber Security program has been made available by the Tech Talent Accelerator Grant. The Tech Talent Accelerator Grant was received from the New England Board of Higher Education through funding made available from the State of Connecticut’s Technology Talent Fund. Enrollment is limited to 30 students for the initial coursework. Enrollment for CYBER 504 is open to 30 students who have completed the initial coursework or have been evaluated by program faculty. Others will be placed on a waitlist.

For more information about the Cyber Security certificate program, reach out to Siobhan Blaze at sblaze@bridgeport.edu.