University of Wisconsin—Madison Cybersecurity Bootcamp
Discover Where Our Cybersecurity Non-Credit Professional Programs Can Take You
Become a Cybersecurity Professional
Envision a Fulfilling Career
Enrolling in the Cybersecurity Bootcamp at the University of Wisconsin–Madison equips you with the skills needed to succeed in a cybersecurity career in just 36 weeks. Led by expert instructors, our online classes feature hands-on exercises that mirror real industry challenges, including simulations of actual cyberattacks. The curriculum is continually updated to incorporate the latest advancements in cybersecurity, such as AI tools and practices.
Along with a comprehensive education, the bootcamp offers ongoing career support and professional development to guide you throughout your journey.
Accelerated Curriculum To Get You Job-Ready Quickly
Train with industry-leading tools and cutting-edge cybersecurity software, gaining the advanced skills needed to make a strong impression on employers.
Hands-On Experience as a Cybersecurity Defender
Hands-On Classes
Our bootcamp is designed to equip you for real-world challenges. Through engaging and hands-on projects, you'll develop both offensive and defensive cybersecurity skills that you can immediately apply on the job from day one.
Virtual Classroom
Expand your cybersecurity expertise with part-time, virtual weekday classes. Our online learning platform provides access to a range of virtual communication tools, connecting you to a supportive community of professionals and peers. Additionally, our courses are continuously updated to reflect the latest advancements in cybersecurity, including cutting-edge AI tools and practices.
Expert Instructors
Having a variety of instructors throughout the program provides learners with different perspectives from cybersecurity subject matter experts. These instructors are critical in helping learners inform their careers and expand their network.
TDX Arena
Build job-ready skills by applying classroom knowledge in TDX Arena, our proprietary virtual training platform. This platform offers everything from daily practice exercises to real-world cyberattack simulations and immersive, gamified learning experiences.
Personalized Support Every Step of the Way
Networking Opportunities
Attend live virtual events with career fairs, industry panels, mock interview days, skill-building webinars, and more.
Career Services
Work 1:1 with Career Coaches to help you tailor your resume and prepare for technical job interviews.
Student Success Managers
Success Managers provide a wide range of assistance throughout the program, including support for both academic and non-academic matters.
Job Search Assistance
Finding the right opportunities is not always easy. Our Career Outcomes team can connect you to help get your foot in the door for the cybersecurity roles you want. They are ready to help you launch your new career in this skyrocketing field.
Explore the Classes That Will Launch Your Cybersecurity Career
Download the Course Catalog Today
Program Overview
4-Week Introductory Course | 32-Week Complete Program
- Introductory Course4 Weeks
Take your first step into the cybersecurity field with our 4-week Introductory Course, where you’ll learn networking basics, security strategies for Linux and Microsoft systems, and offensive security. The assessment at the end of this course will help you decide if cybersecurity is the right path for you.
- Fundamentals Phase12 Weeks
The Fundamentals Phase covers essential cybersecurity principles, including network basics and their functions, Microsoft’s infrastructure, and Linux operating system management. You’ll leave this phase with a solid foundation to help you advance in the world of cybersecurity.
- Computer Networking Fundamentals
In this networking course, you’ll learn how to configure and secure network devices while optimizing performance. Hands-on exercises will help you develop problem-solving skills, ensuring you’re ready to handle the complexities of modern networking systems.
Course Highlights:
- Emphasizes hands-on experience in network device configuration and security.
- Provides practical skills in troubleshooting and optimizing network performance.
- Equips you with a deep understanding of networking protocols and security measures.
Information covered in this course helps prepare learners to begin studying for the following certifications:* CompTIA® Network+, ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity℠
- Microsoft Security Systems Administration
This course offers hands-on training in securing Microsoft Windows systems. You’ll learn how to use tools like Microsoft Defender and Windows Firewall, and gain expertise in managing and configuring secure networks using system administration tools.
Course Highlights:
- Gain in-depth knowledge of Microsoft infrastructure and its security features.
- Learn how to secure accounts and manage network permissions.
- Discover how automation can improve security and efficiency.
- Understand the role of Active Directory in protecting network resources.
- Get hands-on experience with configuring and securing Microsoft networks.
- Integrating Your Infrastructure Security
This course equips you with the skills to implement security measures throughout infrastructure, focusing on managing Linux systems, cloud computing with AWS, and basic Python programming. You’ll also learn to monitor threats and vulnerabilities, using remediation techniques to secure systems.
Course Highlights:
- Manage Linux systems and secure cloud-based infrastructures.
- Develop basic Python programming skills for automation and security.
- Gain practical experience with AWS cloud computing and security.
- Monitor, analyze, and respond to threats and vulnerabilities in systems.
- Understand the importance of DevSecOps in modern cybersecurity infrastructure.
Information covered in this course helps prepare learners to begin studying for the following certification:* AWS Cloud Practitioner
- Infrastructure Phase12 Weeks
The Infrastructure Phase provides you with the knowledge and hands-on experience to create and sustain secure infrastructures and technologies. You’ll gain practical skills in applying critical security measures, as well as an understanding of a hacker’s perspective, to safeguard organizational systems.
- Securing Your Network
In this course, you’ll learn how to secure both wired and wireless networks. You’ll develop access controls, build secure network systems, and explore network monitoring and encryption techniques to protect data and devices.
Course Highlights:
- Learn the vulnerabilities of wired and wireless networks and how to secure them.
- Develop network monitoring skills that ensure ongoing system protection.
- Create and implement access controls to safeguard network resources.
- Understand how encryption supports security and privacy in network environments.
- Gain hands-on skills in designing secure network architectures.
Information covered in this course helps prepare learners to begin studying for the following certifications:* CompTIA® Network+, Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate
- Designing Your Cybersecurity Infrastructure
In this course, you’ll learn to design secure infrastructures by focusing on protecting endpoint devices, preventing data loss, and securing IoT systems. You’ll also gain hands-on experience with advanced tools that help safeguard digital assets.
Course Highlights:
- Learn how to secure endpoint devices from potential threats.
- Implement data loss prevention strategies to protect critical data.
- Understand how to secure IoT devices and industrial networks.
- Develop skills to track and document configuration settings.
- Gain hands-on experience with the latest tools and strategies in cybersecurity.
The information covered in this course helps prepare learners to begin studying for the following certifications:* CompTIA® Security+, CompTIA® CySA+, ISC2 CISSP
- Social Engineering and Ethical Hacking
This course teaches you how to defend against cyber threats by using ethical hacking techniques and understanding social engineering tactics. You’ll explore the motivations behind attacks and learn how to protect systems from both human and technological vulnerabilities.
Course Highlights:
- Learn how hackers use social engineering to bypass security measures.
- Master ethical hacking techniques to proactively secure systems.
- Gain hands-on experience with penetration testing and vulnerability assessment.
- Understand how to report vulnerabilities and improve overall security.
- Explore the psychological tactics attackers use to manipulate systems and people.
The information covered in this course helps prepare learners to begin studying for the following certifications:* CompTIA® CySA+, PenTest+
- Advanced Phase8 Weeks
The Advanced Phase equips you with the knowledge and tools to respond to attacks and secure systems against future threats using digital forensics and post-attack response tools.
- Digital Forensics and Incident Response
This course covers the critical aspects of digital forensics and incident response. You’ll learn how to investigate cyberattacks, recover data, and document your findings using advanced forensic techniques to improve overall security.
Course Highlights:
- Learn how to investigate security breaches using digital forensic tools.
- Develop skills in recovering lost or compromised data.
- Understand how to gather and analyze digital evidence.
- Explore strategies for responding to and documenting cyberattacks.
- Gain practical experience in preparing forensic reports.
The information covered in this course helps prepare learners to begin studying for the following certifications:* CompTIA® Security+, CompTIA® CySA+, and ISC2 SSCP
- Threat Hunting and Intelligence
This course covers the essential techniques of threat hunting and intelligence gathering. You’ll learn how to proactively detect vulnerabilities, respond to cyberattacks, and use threat intelligence to strengthen an organization’s infrastructure security.
Course Highlights:
- Learn the fundamentals of threat hunting and vulnerability detection.
- Gain skills in gathering and analyzing threat intelligence for cybersecurity.
- Develop strategies for responding to cyberattacks in real-time.
- Build comprehensive security plans to mitigate potential threats.
- Understand how to secure organizational infrastructures from cyber risks.
Information covered in this course helps prepare learners to begin studying for the following certifications:* CompTIA® Security+, CompTIA® CySA+, ISC2 SSCP, ISC2 CISSP
- Elective CompTIA® Security+ Certification Exam Prep Course8 Weeks
In this 8-week CompTIA® Security+ Exam Prep Course, you’ll gain the practical skills needed to succeed on the certification exam. This certification will serve as a launchpad for your career in cybersecurity, demonstrating your core competencies to employers.
Course Highlights:
- Demonstrates the essential cybersecurity skills required for any role in the industry.
- Focuses on hands-on, practical skills that are vital for securing cybersecurity positions.
- Globally recognized and highly respected, making it an invaluable asset in your career journey.
*For more information, please visit thrivedx.com/cybersecurity-program-disclaimers.
Build Skills To Help You with Certification Exams
Certifications are a valuable way to demonstrate your cybersecurity expertise. Our courses provide you with the foundational knowledge needed to pursue industry-recognized certifications and excel in your career.*
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification exam is meant for individuals with knowledge of the widespread AWS Cloud platform, as well as its infrastructure and systems. Security and compliance experience in AWS Cloud is a key requirement for passing the exam.
The Cybersecurity Bootcamp includes complimentary access to the AWS Academy curriculum and a discounted voucher for the AWS Certification exam.* Program materials help provide a real-world understanding of AWS Cloud practices so learners can pursue AWS Cloud Certification to work in entry-level roles.
Certified Information Security Manager
Data breaches, ransomware attacks, and other constantly evolving security threats are top-of-mind for today’s IT professionals. With a Certified Information Security Manager® (CISM®) certification, you’ll learn how to assess risks, implement effective governance, and proactively respond to incidents.
CertNexus® CyberSec First Responder® (CFR)
The Cybersecurity Bootcamp helps learners prepare for the CertNexus® CyberSec First Responder® (CFR) certification. A 20% discount for CertNexus® certifications and prep material is available to learners upon completion of the program.*
Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate
The Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate certification allows learners to gain an understanding of how Security Operations Centre (SOC) teams detect and respond to security incidents and is considered a great starting point for cybersecurity professionals.
CompTIA® CySA+
Designed to provide a higher focus at an intermediate level on applying behavioral analytics to networks than the CompTIA® Security+ exam, this exam will cover core cybersecurity skills while placing a greater significance on software and application security. Additionally, it will cover automation, threat hunting, and IT compliance within the industry.
CompTIA® Network+
The CompTIA® Network+ certification exam measures a learner’s ability and knowledge of network device configuration, management, and troubleshooting. It also tests a cybersecurity professional’s familiarity with emerging mobile, cloud, communication, and virtualization technologies.
CompTIA® Security+
The CompTIA® Security+ is a global certification that validates the baseline skills necessary to perform core security functions and pursue an IT security career.
GIAC Certified Incident Handler
The GIAC Incident Handler certification validates a practitioner’s ability to detect, respond, and resolve computer security incidents using a wide range of essential security skills. GCIH certification holders have the knowledge needed to manage security incidents by understanding common attack techniques, vectors, and tools, as well as defend against and respond to such attacks when they occur.
GIAC Security Essentials
The GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC) certification validates a practitioner’s knowledge of information security beyond simple terminology and concepts. GSEC certification holders are demonstrating that they are qualified for hands-on IT systems roles with respect to security tasks.
ISC2 SSCP – Systems Security Certified Practitioner
Learners with at least one year of experience after the completion of their program can take the ISC2 SSCP – Systems Security Certified Practitioner certification exam.**
The ISC2 SSCP exam is meant for cybersecurity professionals who have proven, practical, and hands-on experience and knowledge of the security environment. Once they obtain this certification, individuals have proof that they can carry out the implementation, monitoring, and administration of information technology infrastructure according to information security best practices, policies, and procedures.
LPI Linux Essentials
The Linux LPI Essentials exam offers learners a way to verify their knowledge of the Linux operating system, as well as the workings of various open-source applications. The exam tests the ability to manage users and groups on Linux and also measures their competency with the Linux command line, system permissions and security, basic network configuration skills, and overall Linux administration.
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification exam is meant for individuals with knowledge of the widespread AWS Cloud platform, as well as its infrastructure and systems. Security and compliance experience in AWS Cloud is a key requirement for passing the exam.
The Cybersecurity Bootcamp includes complimentary access to the AWS Academy curriculum and a discounted voucher for the AWS Certification exam.* Program materials help provide a real-world understanding of AWS Cloud practices so learners can pursue AWS Cloud Certification to work in entry-level roles.
- Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
Data breaches, ransomware attacks, and other constantly evolving security threats are top-of-mind for today’s IT professionals. With a Certified Information Security Manager® (CISM®) certification, you’ll learn how to assess risks, implement effective governance, and proactively respond to incidents.
- CertNexus® CyberSec First Responder® (CFR)
The Cybersecurity Bootcamp helps learners prepare for the CertNexus® CyberSec First Responder® (CFR) certification. A 20% discount for CertNexus® certifications and prep material is available to learners upon completion of the program.*
- Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate
The Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate certification allows learners to gain an understanding of how Security Operations Centre (SOC) teams detect and respond to security incidents and is considered a great starting point for cybersecurity professionals.
- CompTIA® CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst+)
Designed to provide a higher focus at an intermediate level on applying behavioral analytics to networks than the CompTIA® Security+ exam, this exam will cover core cybersecurity skills while placing a greater significance on software and application security. Additionally, it will cover automation, threat hunting, and IT compliance within the industry.
- CompTIA® Network+
The CompTIA® Network+ certification exam measures a learner’s ability and knowledge of network device configuration, management, and troubleshooting. It also tests a cybersecurity professional’s familiarity with emerging mobile, cloud, communication, and virtualization technologies.
- CompTIA Security+
The CompTIA® Security+ is a global certification that validates the baseline skills necessary to perform core security functions and pursue an IT security career.
- GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH)
The GIAC Incident Handler certification validates a practitioner’s ability to detect, respond, and resolve computer security incidents using a wide range of essential security skills. GCIH certification holders have the knowledge needed to manage security incidents by understanding common attack techniques, vectors, and tools, as well as defend against and respond to such attacks when they occur.
- GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)
The GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC) certification validates a practitioner’s knowledge of information security beyond simple terminology and concepts. GSEC certification holders are demonstrating that they are qualified for hands-on IT systems roles with respect to security tasks.
- ISC2 SSCP (Systems Security Certified Practitioner)
Learners with at least one year of experience after the completion of their program can take the ISC2 SSCP – Systems Security Certified Practitioner certification exam.**
The ISC2 SSCP exam is meant for cybersecurity professionals who have proven, practical, and hands-on experience and knowledge of the security environment. Once they obtain this certification, individuals have proof that they can carry out the implementation, monitoring, and administration of information technology infrastructure according to information security best practices, policies, and procedures.
- LPI Linux Essentials
The Linux LPI Essentials exam offers learners a way to verify their knowledge of the Linux operating system, as well as the workings of various open-source applications. The exam tests the ability to manage users and groups on Linux and also measures their competency with the Linux command line, system permissions and security, basic network configuration skills, and overall Linux administration.
*For more information, please visit https://thrivedx.com/cybersecurity-program-disclaimers
** In order to be certified, learners must have a minimum of at least one year of cumulative work experience in one or more of the seven disciplines of the SSCP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK)
Program Tuition
This is your chance to invest in your professional development and use this career-prep program to jumpstart your future as a cybersecurity professional.
$180
4-Week Introductory Course
$18,720
32-Week Complete Program
Requirements
- Internet access
- Introductory course and admission exam
Tuition, fees, and deposits are subject to change.
