As our reliance on the internet continues to grow, so does the potential for cyber threats. Companies, governments, and individuals worldwide are constantly on the lookout for qualified cybersecurity professionals to safeguard their data and online activities.
For those aiming to enter this dynamic field, gaining the right certification can be the stepping stone to a successful career. As such, we have curated a list of the Best Online Cybersecurity Certifications that not only provide a competitive edge in the job market but also equip you with the requisite skills and knowledge to combat cyber threats effectively.
10 Best Online Cybersecurity Certification
1 – Code Fellows – Operations and Cybersecurity Intelligent
Award: Premier Choice
Code Fellows offers a remarkably comprehensive cybersecurity course that includes 720 hours of live instruction. What sets Code Fellows apart is their modular structure that spans from Ops 101: Exploring Ethical Hacking & Cybersecurity Careers to Ops 401: Cybersecurity
Engineering, allowing students to enter and exit at their skill level. Upon completing all modules, you’ll obtain A+, Network+, and Security+ certifications. Code Fellows provides flexible scheduling for both full-time students with an intensive daytime track and part-time students with evening and weekend classes.
Price range: $99 – $12,000 per module
Completion time: 8hours – 9 weeks per module
Prerequisites: None
Flexible schedule: Available
Certification included: Yes
Recommended for Both beginners and advanced students due to the module-based approach.
Pros
- Modular course design.
- Provides industry certifications.
- Reasonably priced.
Cons
- Lacks asynchronous options.
2 – Flatiron School – Cybersecurity Analytics Intelligent
Award: Best Tutor
The Cybersecurity Analytics course at Flatiron School is a comprehensive choice for anyone aspiring to a cybersecurity career. The 480-hour intensive online program can be pursued either full-time or part-time, costing $16,900. It prepares students for roles like 1+ SOC analysts, threat intel analysts, security consultants, or compliance analysts. After course completion, students can meet a dedicated career coach for career guidance.
Price: $16,900
Completion time: 480 hours (Full-time: 30 hours per week;
Part-time: 15 hours per week)
Prerequisites: None
Flexible schedule: Available
Certification included: Yes
Recommended for Students interested in cybersecurity analytics, especially those with a data and analytics background.
Pros
- Include career coaching.
- Experienced cybersecurity instructors.
- Full-time and part-time courses are available.
Cons
- Not suitable for absolute beginners.
- Limited financing options.
3 – Fullstack Academy – Cybersecurity Analytics Intelligent
Award: Ideal for Novices
Fullstack Academy’s Cybersecurity Analytics is designed to transform novices into professional cybersecurity experts. The curriculum imparts essential cybersecurity skills with practical projects. Several financing options are available for the tuition fee of $15,980, including an income-sharing program. Graduates receive career guidance and can access free resources and workshops to prepare for the course.
Price: $15,980
Completion time: Full-time: 13 weeks; Part-time: 26 weeks
Prerequisites: None
Flexible schedule: Not Available
Certification included: Yes
Recommended for Beginners. However, the fixed schedule might be challenging for those needing to work while studying.
Pros
- Free introductory workshops are available.
- Offers career guidance for graduates.
- Simple application process.
Cons
- Inflexible schedule.
Read Also: 10 Associate Degree Programs in Administration in the USA 2023
4 – Claim Academy – Cybersecurity Intelligent Award
Award: Perfect for Teamwork
Claim Academy offers both online and on-campus courses, catering to beginners and turning them into job-ready cybersecurity experts. With flexible scheduling and a cost of $13,995, it’s a convenient and affordable choice. The program also provides loans and scholarships, and veterans can use the GI Bill for tuition and housing. Practical coursework is encouraged through pair programming and mentor sessions.
Price: $13,995
Completion time: 12 weeks
Prerequisites: Intro to Java and Fundamentals of Programming
Flexible schedule: Available
Certification included: No
Recommended for Those preferring a collaborative learning environment and can commit to a 60-hour-per-week schedule.
Pros
- Encourage collaborative learning.
- Accepts GI Bill.
- Bootcamps offered year-round.
Cons
- Requires 60-hour commitment per week.
5 – Evolve Security Academy – Cybersecurity Intelligent
Award: Top-notch Interactive Projects
Evolve Security Academy offers a comprehensive 20-week cybersecurity program, emphasizing practical, hands-on training. Although the course does not offer flexible timing, it only requires 20 hours per week, allowing it to be balanced with work and other commitments. The course includes live lectures, pre-recorded lectures, labs, and group projects. Students must pass verbal tests to verify their knowledge. Graduates receive a completion certificate, career coaching, and a free voucher for the CompTIA Security+ certification.
Price: $12,500
Completion time: 20 weeks
Prerequisites: None
Flexible schedule: Not Available
Certification included: Yes
Recommended for those seeking interactive and practical learning and planning to earn additional certifications to strengthen their profiles.
Pros
- Verbal tests to confirm competency.
- Practical group projects.
- Suitable for beginners.
Cons
- Inflexible schedule.
6 – Springboard – Cybersecurity Intelligent
Award: Unmatched Career Services
Springboard’s cybersecurity boot camp is designed to help students acquire practical skills and achieve the necessary certifications for a successful career in cybersecurity. Developed in collaboration with CompTIA, the curriculum focuses on the most sought-after skills in the industry. The course enables students to work on real-world scenarios and provides one-on-one mentorship to enhance skill development. Post-graduation, students have access to unlimited career coaching. Springboard also offers a full refund if graduates do not secure a job within six months. Costing less than $10,000, Springboard is not only one of the most comprehensive programs but also one of the most economical.
Price: $9,540
Completion time: 6 months
Prerequisites: Evaluation of baseline soft skills
Flexible schedule: Available
Certification included: Yes
Recommended for Individuals seeking career guidance and certification preparation. The self-paced course is ideal for those managing work alongside their studies.
Pros
- Affordable fee structure.
- Exceptional career coaching services.
- Self-paced learning.
Cons
- Course duration is relatively long
7 – Eleven Fifty Academy – Cybersecurity Intelligent
Award: Superior for Certifications
Eleven Fifty’s cybersecurity boot camps equip students to prevent, monitor, and counteract cyberattacks, preparing them for entry-level positions as security analysts, SOC analysts, and incident response analysts.
The course involves several weeks of hands-on training on a cyber range that emulates real-life cyberattacks. During the boot camp, students aim to obtain their CompTIA Network+ and Security+ certifications and create a personal portfolio to showcase their skills to potential employers. Graduates can take advantage of career coaching to enhance their LinkedIn profiles, develop their resumes, and network with industry professionals.
Price: $18,000
Completion time: 14 to 24 weeks
Prerequisites: None
Flexible schedule: No
Certification included: Yes
Recommended for individuals prioritizing the acquisition of essential CompTIA cybersecurity certifications.
Pros
- Preparation for certifications.
- Focus on real world projects
Cons
- Lack of flexible schedule
- High cost.
8 – Ironhack – Cybersecurity Intelligent
Award: Ideal for Distance Learning
Ironhack’s online cybersecurity boot camp is designed for individuals with no IT background, preparing them for entry-level cybersecurity roles. Before the program, students are required to complete 20 hours of preparatory work covering basic concepts such as operating systems and networks. The course comprises three modules teaching the basic principles of cybersecurity, the creation of security programs, and protection against real-time cyber attacks. The course encourages interaction with instructors and peers through live classroom lectures and prepares students for remote working environments.
Price: $12,000
Completion time: 12 weeks
Prerequisites: 20 hours of preparatory work
Flexible schedule: Yes
Certification included: Yes
Recommended for those seeking a high-quality remote learning experience and targeting remote cybersecurity roles post-graduation.
Pros
- Flexible scheduling
- Comprehensive curriculum.
Cons
- Limited financial aid options
- Limited availability.
9 – The Tech Academy – Cybersecurity Intelligent
Award: Excellent for Programming Learning
The Tech Academy’s cybersecurity boot camp focuses on teaching the fundamentals of modern cybersecurity practices, including the protection of hardware, websites, networks, software, the cloud, and apps. The course also introduces skills applicable to careers in programming and software development, such as Java, iOS, and Android development. Although the course fee of $20,000 is comparatively high, the program provides 800 hours of study material and activities, concluding with a live project to provide real-world experience. Graduates can avail of job placement services to kickstart their careers in the cybersecurity industry.
Price: Full-time: $20,000; Part-time: $24,640
Completion time: Full-time: 20 weeks; Part-time: 30 weeks
Prerequisites: None
Flexible schedule: Yes
Certification included: Yes
Recommended for individuals aiming to gain knowledge and skills that are applicable in other tech industry sectors, in addition to basic cybersecurity practices.
Pros
- Comprehensive study material.
- Full-time or part-time enrollment
Cons
- High fee structure.
- Lengthy course duration
10 – Automation Workz – Cybersecurity Tech Intelligent
Award: Most Budget-friendly
Automation Workz offers an economical cybersecurity program without compromising on a comprehensive curriculum that readies students for the cybersecurity workforce. Students attain their Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification and learn how to guard against common
hacking techniques. Full-time students can complete the course in four months, while part-time students may take eight months. For those needing flexibility, self-enrollment provides a more adaptable schedule. The course also prepares students for the Cisco CyberOps Associate (CCOA®) exam, setting the path for a career as a cybersecurity operations analyst. Numerous graduates have secured six-figure cybersecurity jobs post-graduation. For an even more economicaloption, Automation Workz offers a free Introduction to Cybersecurity course.
Price: $8,425
Completion time: Full-time: 4 months; Part-time: 8 months
Prerequisites: Completion of the Network Tech program
Flexible schedule: Yes
Certification included: Yes
Recommended for students on a tight budget who may not be eligible for financing options offered by other boot camps.
Pros
- Highly affordable tuition
- Preparation for certification”
Cons
- Completion takes eight months for part-time students.
Whether you’re a seasoned IT professional aiming to specialize in cybersecurity or a newcomer to the tech industry, the right certification can pave the way for numerous opportunities in this growing field. The “10 Best Online Cybersecurity Certifications” we have compiled offer a mix of practical skills, theoretical understanding, and industry-recognized credentials that can set you apart in the global cybersecurity landscape. Remember, every certification requires dedication, commitment, and a genuine interest in safeguarding digital spaces. Choose the one that best aligns with your career goals and step confidently into the world of cybersecurity, a field that is not just rewarding but also critical in our increasingly digital world.