Explore the Best Cybersecurity Certifications Online

Undergraduate Cybersecurity Certifications Online

Undergraduate online cybersecurity certifications appeal to learners with little or no experience in the field who want to use the program to find their first job. Although certifications typically don’t require coursework, the process of preparing for required exams can help students build the knowledge needed to fill entry-level support roles after successful completion. These programs may be the fastest way to get your foot in the door, but you’ll need a higher level of certification or a cybersecurity degree if you hope to advance through the field or find work as a cybersecurity expert on the federal level.

Graduate Cybersecurity Certifications Online

Online graduate cybersecurity certifications meet the needs of learners who already possess some relevant education (e.g., an associate or bachelor’s degree) and work experience who now want to advance their careers. These programs expect applicants to already understand the basic tenets of cybersecurity and exams focus on more advanced concepts and procedures. Professionals looking to move into managerial or research roles often pursue these credentials as they provide the signal to prospective employers that the candidate has a well-rounded knowledge of best practices and principals in cybersecurity.

Most Popular Cybersecurity Certifications Online

With so many cybersecurity certifications available, it’s important that you find one that aligns closely with your goals. The certifications spotlighted in this section help qualify students for the fastest-growing and best-paying roles in the cybersecurity field, making them some of the most popular certifications available

• GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)
  Global Information Assurance Certifications offers this credential for security professionals already working in the field who want to move into roles requiring more than a basic understanding of foundational concepts. The certification requires learners to pass a proctored exam consisting of 180 questions and receive a minimum score of 73%.
• Certified Information Security Systems Professionals (CISSP)
  This certification exists for cybersecurity professionals with at least five years of experience looking to take on managerial positions (e.g., director of security, chief information officer, security architect). The certification meets the U.S. Department of Defense’s Directive, making it a popular option for federal employees. The exam covers eight security domains.
• System Security Certified Provider (SSCP)
  Applicants to this certification must possess at least one year of paid work experience in one of the seven security domain focus areas. Examinees typically already work as IT administrators or network security professionals and want to advance their marketable skills in areas of IT infrastructure administration and critical asset security.
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
  The Information Systems Audit and Control Association offers this certification to professionals who want to transition to management roles in international security practices, informational security governance, and management of information risk. The exam consists of 150 questions and more than 32,000 professionals have received certification since it was introduced.
• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
  Experienced cybersecurity workers interested in auditing, controlling, and securing information systems can apply to this certification once they possess at least five years of experience in a related role. ISACA offers study materials, an exam prep community, virtual instructor-led training courses, and a self-assessment exam to help you pass the test.
• Certified Ethical Hacker
  Designed for individuals with an interest in helping businesses find weaknesses in their security systems, this certification helps them demonstrate competencies and differentiate them from other types of hackers. The exam consists of 125 multiple choice questions taken over four hours. Passing scores typically range from 65% to 85%.
• CompTIA Security+
  Designed for entry-level cybersecurity workers, this certification validates foundational skills and opens doors to positions seeking candidates with hands-on experience. Topics covered include intrusion detection, threat and risk management, and risk mitigation. Common jobs held by those with Security+ Certification include security specialist, systems administrator, and security consultant. The exam consists of 90 multiple choice and performance-based questions.
• CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
  With a focus on using behavioral analytics to detect, prevent, and combat cybersecurity intrusions, this certification ensures applicants possess advanced skills in security architecture, vulnerability management, threat response, and cyber-incident preparation. Applicants should possess between three to four years of experience when applying.
• CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)
  The CASP+ certification exists for security practitioners with ample experience who want to continue working directly with security technology rather than moving into managerial roles. The certification covers enterprise security operations and architecture, risk management, and research and development. Applicants need at least 10 years of experience to sit the exam.