New!

Online Cybersecurity Bootcamp

With cybersecurity employment predicted to grow 32% by 2032, there’s never been a better time to grow your IT skill set and earn an industry-aligned cyber security certification. The Northeastern Illinois University’s 100% online Cybersecurity Bootcamp can prepare you to become a cybersecurity professional in 10-18 weeks.

  • Duration 10-18 Weeks
  • Upcoming Part-Time Cohort  
  • Upcoming Full-Time Cohort  
recognized by fortune education

QuickStart’s Cybersecurity Bootcamp was recognized as the Best Cybersecurity Bootcamp for Real-world Training in 2024 by Fortune Education.

At a Glance: Cybersecurity Training

  • Designed for entry-level cyber security jobs, no experience needed
  • Affordable
  • Full-time and part-time programs
    (10 and 18 weeks)
  • 100% online instruction
  • Dedicated career services
  • Beginner-friendly IT instruction

Your Learning Style

Take advantage of live, instructor-led courses and independent study.

Your Schedule

Full-time and part-time options to fit your lifestyle.

Your Future

Start a successful cybersecurity career with foundational applied training and comprehensive career support.

Explore the Northeastern Illinois University's Online Cyber Security Learning Experience

Northeastern Illinois University Cyber Security Certification Capstone Project

Impactful Projects and Assignments

Throughout your bootcamp, you will build a substantial portfolio of projects that demonstrate your proficiency in the leading cybersecurity programs and tools. Students will participate in a “Capture the Flag” challenge involving real-world penetration testing scenarios; as well as two career simulators, scenario-based projects that model on-the-job situations, at the conclusion of the program.

Northeastern Illinois University Cyber Security Certification Mentoring

Virtual Hands-On Lab Experiences

Your cybersecurity courses will feature several lab assignments that allow you to apply concepts in a virtual hands-on "sandbox environment" that provides a controlled and secure space for students to experiment without the risk of causing damage or compromising actual systems.

Northeastern Illinois University Cyber Security Certification Comptia Security+

Dedicated Certification Preparation

Our bootcamp includes dedicated certification preparation (exam preparation, targeted reviews, and mock exams) during the final weeks of the program, designed to help students review and solidify cybersecurity skills prior to taking the industry-aligned CompTIA Sec+ certification exam. The CompTIA exam preparation course ($2,300), study guide ($170), and exam ($400) costs are all included in your bootcamp program price, for a savings of $2,870.

Northeastern Illinois University Cyber Security Certification Student Support

Comprehensive Student Support

Our bootcamp offers comprehensive student support services to enhance the learning experience and foster a supportive learning environment; helping students succeed in mastering cybersecurity skills; including weekly virtual office hours, with real-time interaction with instructors as well as personalized 1:1 mentoring sessions and access to a 24/7 AI tutor.

Northeastern Illinois University Cyber Security Certification Career Services

Extensive Career Services

This online bootcamp equips you with the necessary skills for an entry-level cybersecurity role. You will have access to a suite of resources, including a career services platform featuring job opportunities and a talent portal where hiring organizations can contact you, and guidance on how to market your new cybersecurity skills.

  • Career Coaching

    Focus on achieving your career goals through 30-minute sessions
    with a career coach.

  • Interview Prep

    Learn how to ace your cyber interviews through constructive mock interviews.

  • Resume Building

    Build an IT resume and portfolio with the help of QuickStart's career coach.

High Growth, High Potential Cybersecurity Jobs

Our program prepares students for a range of cybersecurity roles. While salaries and positions will vary, explore the career opportunities typically available to our program graduates.

Role Average Salary
Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Monitor, analyze, and report key security performance metrics
  • Provide input into incident response policy
  • Manage and maintain security infrastructure and applications
$88,779/year
Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
  • Monitor company networks and servers
  • Identify security breaches that can harm company data and information
  • Analyze security threats against company security operations
$69,396/year

Sources: Talent.com, 2023, Robert Half 2023

Alumni Success Stories

Students who have completed our bootcamp programs have secured positions at notable organizations nationwide, including:

  • Northeastern Illinois University Cyber Security Certification Apple Logo
  • Northeastern Illinois University Cyber Security Certification AT&T
  • Northeastern Illinois University Cyber Security Certification Oracle Logo
  • Northeastern Illinois University Cyber Security Certification Meta Logo
  • Northeastern Illinois University Cyber Security Certification American Airlines Logo
  • Berkshire Hathaway
  • Capgemini
  • Charles Schwab
  • Cognizant
  • Cisco
  • Fidelity
  • Fiserv
  • General Electric
  • General Motors
  • Home Depot
  • Norton Lifelock
  • Revature
  • Shake Shack
  • Skillstorm
  • Tesla

Choose Your Learning Track

Our part-time and full-time program options are designed to accommodate your learning style, your schedule and your entry into the IT field

PART-TIME TUITION INCREASES IN 2025

PART TIME

Next Cohort:  
  • Instructor-led sessions 2x weekly
  • Hands-on labs
  • Capstone projects
  • Peer collaboration
  • Dedicated certification preparation
  • 20-25 hour weekly commitment
  • Career services
PART-TIME TUITION INCREASES IN 2025

18-Week
Cybersecurity Bootcamp

$7,900*

Explore Pricing Options *Pre pay discount available
PART TIME
Next Cohort:  

This pacing option offers a balanced approach to virtual learning. Part-time learners engage in primarily asynchronous course content, complemented by live class sessions 2x weekly. This format is ideal for students who want instructor support and have a more flexible schedule.

Explore Pricing Options
New!

FULL TIME

Next Cohort:  
  • Live, online instructor-led sessions, Monday- Friday
  • Hands-on labs
  • Capstone projects
  • Peer collaboration
  • Dedicated certification preparation
  • 35-40 hour weekly commitment and additional ~10 hour weekly independent work
  • Career services
New!

10-Week
Cybersecurity Bootcamp

FULL TIME
Next Cohort:  

The full-time training option condenses the program into a 10-week timeline for motivated cybersecurity students. Learners participate in synchronous class sessions to advance their skills with instructor support.

Explore Pricing Options

20 WEEKS

Next Cohort: July 15, 2024
  • Virtual Hands-On Labs Virtual Hands-on labs sharpen your skills and prepare you for real world scenarios.
  • Virtual Office Hours Scheduled live sessions held on a weekly basis where students have the opportunity to ask questions, seek clarification, and interact with the facilitator.
  • Capstone Projects Capstone projects will demonstrate to employers the skills and knowledge you acquired through the bootcamp.
  • Career Services QuickStart’s career services assist students in their efforts in finding a role in Cybersecurity through resume building, mock interviews, and internship and job opportunities access.

Accelerated
Cybersecurity Bootcamp

$18,000*

Explore Pricing Options & GI Bill Eligible
20 WEEKS
Next Cohort: July 15, 2024

Students attend instructor-led sessions that result in 18 course-hours per week. This accelerated format supports information retention and supports certification preparation, and provides real-world experience through lab work and projects.

Explore Pricing Options

Bootcamp Courses

Through our partnerships with top technology organizations, we’re able to offer leading-edge IT training, and coursework designed for the future of the field. Each bootcamp course will prepare you with new skills and tools to pass a top industry and career-relevant certification.

Curriculum Overview
  • Northeastern Illinois University Cyber Security Certification Security Essentials

    Cyber Security Essentials

    Part Time: Week 1
    Full Time: Week 1
    • Learn computing basics and the value of data and troubleshooting
    • Explore applications software and the various components of an operating system
    • Set up and install common peripheral devices to a laptop/PC or secure a basic wireless network
    • Establish fundamentals of cybersecurity
  • Northeastern Illinois University Cyber Security Certification System and Network Security

    System and Network Security

    Part Time: Week 2-4
    Full Time: Week 2
    • Understand the mechanics of how network connected devices transmit and receive data
    • Monitor and optimize networks to ensure business continuity
    • Explain routing technologies and networking devices
    • Explain security concepts and network attacks to harden networks against threats
  • Northeastern Illinois University Cyber Security Certification Career Simulation 1

    Career Simulation 1

    Part Time: Week 5
    Full Time: Week 3
    • Act as an IT subject matter expert who is hired by company to upgrade their IT system by installing a Virtual machine, Firewall, a PC for the CEO, an internal Web Server, an internal DNS server, and some Linux machines for monitoring
    • Conduct cybersecurity related tasks
  • Northeastern Illinois University Cyber Security Certification Linux Essential

    Linux Essentials

    Part Time: Week 6-7
    Full Time: Week 4
    • Explore the various tools and techniques commonly used by Linux system administrators
    • Navigate through major Linux distributions, system configurations, and the graphical interface of Linux
    • Experiment with bash scripting and user security controls
  • Northeastern Illinois University Cyber Security Certification Security Operations and Architecture

    Security Operations and Architecture

    Part Time: Week 8-11
    Full Time: Week 5
    • Master key cybersecurity terminology and concepts
    • Understand the security implications of different architecture models and learn the principles of securing enterprise infrastructure
    • Train in responding to common threats, cyberattacks, vulnerabilities, and security incidents
  • Northeastern Illinois University Cyber Security Certification Career Simulation 2

    Career Simulation 2

    Part Time: Week 12
    Full Time: Week 6
    • Assess the vulnerabilities of the new production server and the Web Server within the network, implementing measures to enhance the overall security of the network
    • Involves the installation and configuration of the Production server and the implementation of IDS/IPS on pfSense and actively engages in simulated attacks to identify vulnerabilities
  • Northeastern Illinois University Cyber Security Certification Security Analyst Essentials

    Cyber Security Analyst Essentials

    Part Time: Week 13-14
    Full Time: Week 7
    • Collect cybersecurity intelligence through various sources
    • Analyze data from security and event logs to identify potential threats
    • Respond to and investigate cybersecurity incidents, addressing security issues in the organization's technology architecture
  • Northeastern Illinois University Cyber Security Certification Final Career Simulation

    Final Career Simulation

    Part Time: Week 15-16
    Full Time: Week 8-9
    • Complete a Capture The Flag (CTF) simulation, a gamified approach to learning and testing one's skills in various practical aspects of penetration testing, network security, and system exploitation
  • Northeastern Illinois University Cyber Security Certification Exam Preparation for CompTIA Sec+

    Exam Preparation for CompTIA Sec+

    Part Time: Week 17-18
    Full Time: Week 10
    • Review and refresh your knowledge of exam topics
    • Run through practice Security+ Exams and receive study tips to obtain the Security+ credential

Learn from Industry Experts

Our instructors have years of experience in information technology and cybersecurity. With the support of our instructors, you will develop the framework to solve problems cybersecurity professionals face daily.

Michael “Ty” Garrett

B.S., SEC+, CTT+

Passionate about education and driven by a commitment to fostering learning, Michael brings a wealth of experience and expertise to IT training and mentoring. He has a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and a Minor in Physics from Bradley University, and his professional journey includes roles such as Networking Project Manager at AT&T, Geosteering Manager at Paladin Surface Logging, and Geosteering Analyst at Pinson Well Logging. Michael currently serves as an IT Trainer and Mentor on CompTIA A+, Net+, Sec+, CYSA+, Pentest+, Python, and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH).

William Clark

CYBERSECURITY INSTRUCTOR

William has extensive experience developing and delivering training courses covering a wide range of courses including CompTIA Network+ and Security+, CWNP Certified Wireless Network Administrator, TCP/IP networking, and more. William is the author of multiple instructor-led and self-paced IT training courses including pre- and post-training assessment tools. His training experience includes government, military, manufacturing, retail, and more. William established a reputable technology consulting and training company “Clark Technology Group, Inc” in 1989, specializing in TCP/IP networking, Cybersecurity, CompTIA certifications, and more. He holds the following certifications: CompTIA Security+, Network+, Mobility+, ITF+, CTT+ and CWNP CWNT, CWTS, and CWNA.

Cybersecurity Bootcamp Outcomes

The Northeastern Illinois University's Cybersecurity Bootcamp prepares students for successful IT careers. We pride ourselves on helping students achieve their career goals by empowering them with applied and in-demand skills and certifications.

  • Learn Top Cybersecurity Skills

    Study industry-aligned competencies and develop skills through virtual hands-on projects

  • Earn an Employer-Aligned Certification

    Master the skills to pass a top cybersecurity certification

  • Start Your New Career Path

    Complete the program prepared for an entry-level cybersecurity role and equipped with career resources from QuickStart

Cybersecurity Bootcamp Admissions Process

Submit a Request More Information Form

  • 1

    Our admissions team will review your form. If you have not scheduled a call with an advisor by the time your form is reviewed, one of our team members will reach out to you to schedule an interview.

  • 2

    You’ll interview with an admissions advisor to verify that the Cybersecurity Bootcamp is the right fit for your career goals. Your advisor will also answer your questions, cover financing options, and discuss next steps.

  • 3

    Upon enrollment, you will receive access to recommended coursework to prepare for the start of classes and get a head start on your learning.

  • 4

    Begin learning new skills in the Northeastern Illinois University’s Cybersecurity Bootcamp.

Hear from Our Students

It gave me the confidence I needed to look for the job that I was looking for. Even though I already had IT experience I was lacking confidence. The instructors that I had the opportunity to work with were able to guide me and support me throughout the program, answering questions when I needed the answer and support. My wife is very happy that I will not have that crazy schedule going in to work at different times during the week and on working holidays.

Francisco Ventura

I was looking to change careers from retail to IT. If you're looking for an opportunity to learn at your own pace while still working or taking care of a family, this course would be perfect for you. The courses don't overwhelm you. My coach was wonderful and was always available to answer any questions that I had. The job assistance team was fantastic. They have a wealth of knowledge and resources to get you noticed. I was very fortunate to get hired in just a few months after graduation.

Donald Lloyd

How We Compare to Other Bootcamps

We offer one of the most accessible and affordable bootcamps for aspiring cybersecurity professionals. Discover the advantages of choosing us for your IT training.

Our Benefits Fullstack Academy Flatiron School SpringBoard
Duration (part-time) 18 weeks 26 weeks 40 weeks 24 weeks
Admissions assessment No Yes Yes Yes
University branded Yes No No No
Exam voucher for industry certification Yes Yes No Yes
Dedicated exam preparation Yes No No No
Tuition $7,900 $14,995 $16,900 $9,900

Cybersecurity Bootcamp FAQs

What kind of bootcamps do you offer?

We offer cybersecurity, software engineering, data analytics & visualization, and cloud engineering bootcamps on part-time and full-time learning tracks.

Our part-time and full-time tracks allow you to choose a pacing option that can accommodate your lifestyle needs. Our full-time program requires an average time commitment of 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, for 10 weeks. We recommend students not be employed during training due to the rigor of this program in the full-time option.

Bootcamp tuition ranges based on the program pace selected. The full-time Cybersecurity Bootcamp costs $12,000, while the part-time option costs $7,900.

On average, cybersecurity bootcamps take between 18 (part-time) and 10 weeks (full-time) to complete, depending on the modality that you choose.

Bootcamp scholarships are not offered at this time.

All online bootcamp programs are designed to accommodate students with varying levels of expertise, but certain prerequisites should be satisfied in order to ensure a smoother learning experience. Students should possess a fundamental understanding of basic computer operations, such as file management, software installation, and system navigation.

  • File Management: Ability to create, rename, move, and delete files and folders
  • Software Installation: Proficiency in installing and uninstalling software is essential. This includes understanding the process of downloading software, running installation wizards, and managing software updates
  • System Navigation: Ability to navigate the operating system interface with ease

Our bootcamps prepare students for entry-level roles. Our career services team is available to provide guidance to online learners in obtaining those roles.

Yes, our career coaches will help you with resume building, mock interviews, and internship/job opportunities.

Read more about our refund policy here.

  • Processor:
    1. Intel Core i5 (or above)
      Suitable for general computing tasks.
      Balances performance and power efficiency.
    1. Apple Silicon Processors (M1 and later)
      Designed specifically for Macs.
      Offers impressive performance and energy efficiency.
  • RAM (Memory):
    1. Minimum: 8GB (for basic functionality).
    2. Recommended: 16GB (for smoother multitasking and future-proofing).
  • Storage:
    1. Minimum - 100GB of internal drive space (not USB or external).
    2. Type - Preferably solid-state drives (SSDs) for faster read/write speeds.
  • Operating System:
    1. Windows 10 or 11 (Not S Mode)
    2. macOS 11 or above

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