About this Program
Cybercrime is a major national security threat, with hackers using increasingly advanced tactics to steal data and extort millions from governments and businesses. Effective responses require fast action, strong investigative skills and sound risk judgement. Organizations increasingly seek professionals who can protect their systems from growing attacks.
In this three-course certificate program, you’ll gain a real-world perspective on cybersecurity by learning how professionals apply tools, frameworks and strategic thinking. You’ll evaluate costs and benefits of different security approaches, counteract cyberattack simulations and connect with mentors from the United Nations, U.S. Department of Justice, National Security Agency, FBI and CIA. Expanding on the UW Certificate in Cybersecurity, this program emphasizes governance, strategy and risk interpretation — preparing you for emerging fields like AI systems oversight.
▸ Related Article: How to Become a Cybersecurity Professional
Designed for
Anyone interested in entering or advancing in the field of cybersecurity risk management.
See Requirements
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
To apply, you must have:
- At least two years of college education
- A passion for cybersecurity and an idea about the type of role you'd like to pursue
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
UW Bothell Students
Because this is program is offered by UW Bothell, students who are seniors at that campus and who are interested in information security and risk management are encouraged to apply. For more information, students should contact the Center for information Assurance & Cybersecurity (CIAC) at UW Bothell.
Time Commitment
Including time in class, you should expect to spend about eight to 10 hours each week on coursework.
English Proficiency
If English is not your native language, you should have at least intermediate English skills to enroll. To see if you qualify, make sure you are at the B2 level on the CEFR self-assessment grid. To learn more, see English Language Proficiency Requirements – Noncredit Programs.
International Students
Because this offering is 100% online, no visa is required and international students are welcome to apply. For more information, see Admission Requirements for International Students.
Technology Requirements
- Access to a computer with high-speed internet connection
- EC-Council Labs software (free)
- EC-Council's CyberQ software (purchase required).
Earning the Certificate
You earn a certificate of completion by successfully completing all required courses. For more information, see Earning the Certificate.
▸ Explore More: Want technical training in cybersecurity? Take a look at the Certificate in Cybersecurity — or find the right cybsecurity program for you.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
- How to create and implement security and incident response plans so you’re prepared for a breach
- New frameworks for cyber-risk legal issues such as forensic readiness and Internet of Things
- Solutions to social technical problems using an Atlas of Risk Maps
- How to use the National Initiative Cybersecurity Education workforce framework to assess your professional interests and map them to a career in cybersecurity
- How to respond under pressure during real-time attacks with triage
Get Hands-On Experience
- Write and critique cybersecurity policies, which you can reference in future jobs
- Practice hacking sites, conducting forensic investigations, anticipating upcoming attacks and profiling internal threats
- Use cybersecurity software from EC-Council
- Engage in international discussions with other students and field faculty
EARN CENTER FOR NATIONAL SECURITY STUDIES CERTIFICATION
In addition to your UW certificate, upon completion of this program, you’ll also earn Center for National Security Studies Certification through the UW Center for Information Assurance & Cybersecurity. CIAC is designated by the National Security Agency as a Center for Academic Excellence in Research and in Cyber Defense Education.
PREPARE FOR EC-COUNCIL CERTIFICATIONS
This program also helps you prepare to earn certifications from EC-Council in Network Defense Essentials, Ethical Hacking Essentials and Digital Forensics Essentials.
Career Stats
89%
Alumni working in field
Sample Employers
T-Mobile, Microsoft, Boeing, Uber, AT&T, various federal and state government agencies
44.6%
Projected job growth for information security analysts in Washington state (2024-2034)
$142,938
Median salary for information security analysts in Washington state (2023)
EARN DIGITAL BADGES
You can earn a digital achievement badge for successfully completing this certificate program, as well as a separate badge for each course. These badges can be shared on LinkedIn and other social media sites. Learn more about digital badges.
OUR ENROLLMENT COACHES ARE HERE TO HELP
Connect with an enrollment coach to learn more about this offering. Or if you need help finding the right certificate, specialization or course for you, reach out to explore your options.