Certifications & Independent Learning

In the cybersecurity industry, many employers place a high value on candidates who not only possess a solid understanding of cybersecurity concepts but also hold relevant certifications. While foundational knowledge in areas like threat analysis, network security, and ethical hacking is essential, certifications such as CompTIA Security+ and CISSP provide tangible proof of a candidate’s specialized expertise and commitment to the field.

Below are several examples of entry level certifications, advanced certifications, and online learning options for students to complete.

Entry Level Certifications

Certification	Description	Recommendations	Site
CompTIA Security+	Widely recognized as a foundational certification, covering basic cybersecurity principles, network security, and risk management.	Ideal for beginners and those just entering the field.	Sec+
CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)	Intermediate-level certification for students aiming to pursue roles in threat detection, analysis, and response.	A strong choice for those focused on incident response and behavioral analytics.	CySA+
(ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)	Covers the basics of cybersecurity concepts and best practices.	A new entry-level certification from (ISC)², ideal for students with no prior experience.	ISC²
GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)	Focuses on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in information security.	Ideal for beginners and those just entering the field.	GSEC

Advanced Certifications

Certification	Description	Recomendations	Site
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)	A globally recognized advanced certification that covers a broad range of cybersecurity domains, including risk management, asset security, and software development security.	Typically for those with some professional experience, but can be pursued by motivated graduate students.	CISSP
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)	Focuses on managing and governing information security programs.	Ideal for students interested in cybersecurity leadership or managerial roles.	CISM
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)	Designed for those focusing on auditing, control, and assurance in IT environments.	Suitable for students with a specific interest in compliance and auditing.	CISA
Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)	A highly technical, hands-on certification focused on penetration testing and offensive security techniques.	Good for students looking to gain advanced penetration testing skills.	OSCP
GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH)	Focuses on detecting, responding to, and recovering from security incidents.	Ideal for students targeting roles in incident response and forensics.	GCIH

Online Learning Programs

Program	Description	Site
Coursera – IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate	Covers topics such as threat intelligence, endpoint protection, and network security.	Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate
Udemy – The Complete Cyber Security Course (by Nathan House)	A highly rated, practical course that covers cybersecurity for both personal and professional use.	The Complete Cyber Security Course
Cybrary	Offers a wide range of free and paid courses in various cybersecurity areas, from beginner to advanced levels, including certifications like CEH and CISSP.	Cybrary
LinkedIn Learning – Learning Cybersecurity	A basic course aimed at providing a foundational understanding of cybersecurity concepts, ideal for undergraduate students starting out.	Learning Cybersecurity
SANS Cyber Aces Online	Free foundational courses in cybersecurity, including networking, operating systems, and system administration security.	SANS Cyber Aces Online
Professor Messer	Professor Messer’s website provides free, comprehensive video training and study resources for popular CompTIA certifications like A+, Network+, and Security+, along with practice exams, study guides, and exam preparation materials to support IT certification candidates.	Professor Messer