Cybersecurity, Tech Certificate – Online

Essentials Courses (3 courses |  9 weeks)

Step confidently into the world of cybersecurity by mastering the basics: computer networking, Python scripting, and operating systems. These courses equip you with the skills to safeguard digital systems from the ground up.

Introduction to Cybersecurity (3 weeks)

Begin your journey by learning how computers and networks function. You’ll explore key hardware components, basic networking concepts, virtualization, and practice using the Linux command line.

• Identify and explain computer hardware components
• Use foundational Linux and Windows commands
• Configure and manage virtual machines
• Recognize built-in OS security features

Introduction to Python (3 weeks)

Develop the scripting and programming fundamentals needed for automation and data analysis in cybersecurity. This module introduces Python concepts including variables, data structures, and algorithms.

• Write basic Python scripts
• Apply core programming methodologies
• Understand the role of scripting in cybersecurity

OS & Networking (3 weeks)

Dive into network structures and operating systems. Learn how to identify, troubleshoot, and secure networks using both Windows and Linux systems.

• Interpret and analyze network diagrams
• Diagnose OS and networking issues
• Understand system-level security principles

Foundations I (3 courses | 9 weeks)

System Hardening (3 weeks)

Strengthen your cybersecurity foundation by exploring advanced Linux commands, Active Directory, cloud security, and regulatory compliance. Learn how to secure systems against future threats.

• Harden systems using security best practices
• Automate security tasks through scripting
• Monitor and maintain secure infrastructure

Threat Intelligence (3 weeks)

Gain insight into how threat actors operate and how to anticipate their moves. Explore frameworks like MITRE ATT&CK and integrate Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) into cybersecurity strategy.  

• Analyze security events using SIEM tools
• Apply threat modeling frameworks
• Incorporate GRC strategies into workflows

SIEM & Threat Hunting (3 weeks)

Learn how to detect, investigate, and respond to security incidents using Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools and threat hunting techniques.

• Utilize SIEM tools for log and event analysis
• Conduct threat hunts and incident simulations
• Manage vulnerabilities using real-world data

Foundations II (4 Courses | 12 weeks)

Security Architecture & Frameworks (3 weeks)

Understand how secure systems are built. This module covers architectural frameworks, zero-trust principles, network segmentation, and secure cloud design.

• Design and assess secure network architectures
• Identify and mitigate architectural vulnerabilities
• Apply secure design concepts

Incident Response (3 weeks)

Prepare to respond to cybersecurity breaches. Learn digital forensics, malware evaluation, and API security, applying your skills in real-world simulations.

• Conduct digital forensics investigations
• Develop incident response strategies
• Secure APIs in enterprise environments 

Penetration Testing (3 weeks)

Learn how to ethically hack systems to discover vulnerabilities. This course covers reconnaissance, exploitation, and post-exploitation using industry tools.

• Use tools like Nmap, Metasploit, and Burp Suite
•  Conduct vulnerability scans and logging
• Apply ethical hacking methodologies

Penetration Testing Applications (3 weeks)

Take penetration testing to the next level by focusing on web applications, mobile security, and emerging technologies such as AI and OT environments.

• Perform advanced web and mobile penetration tests
• Assess security in Active Directory and OT environments
• Build secure mobile architectures

Cybersecurity Capstone (1 Course | 15 weeks)

Apply everything you’ve learned in a culminating capstone project. Solve real-world business problems through security assessments, network analysis, and incident response planning.

• Produce a detailed network analysis report
• Create a comprehensive incident response plan
• Develop a professional cybersecurity portfolio

If you want the most affordable option, paying up front is your best choice. By paying in full before your start date, you’ll save compared to other options.

• Pay upfront: $9,900
  Please reach out to our enrollment team for the pay upfront discount code to be used at checkout.
• Deposit: None required

UNC Charlotte partners with ELM Select to offer educational loans while you study. These loans are not offered by UNC Charlotte but are made by other loan providers. Read more about these educational loans or contact our Registration Center for assistance at ceregistration@charlotte.edu or 704-687-8900.

• Cost: $9,900
• Monthly Payments, Interest rate, and repayment period: Dependent on the financing option chosen

With UNC Charlotte’s payment plan, you’ll be able to pay your tuition commitment over equal monthly payments across the duration of your program. For assistance, contact our Registration Center at ceregistration@charlotte.edu or 704-687-8900.

• Cost: $10,900
• Deposit: $2,500
• Monthly Payments and Repayment Period:
  • Part-time: $763.64 for 11 months