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Coding bootcamps are intensive, short-term programs that prepare graduates for immediate career entry. Bootcamps offer flexibility, affordability, and industry relevance. Learners can choose from several bootcamp types, with courses focused on full-stack programming, data science, software engineering, and cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity bootcamp graduates often work as information security analysts. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these professionals earn a median annual salary of $103,590. The BLS also projects a 33% growth for information security analysts from 2020-2030.
Learn more about bootcamps in the following guide. Search for your ideal program using our roundup of cybersecurity bootcamp reviews.
Top Cybersecurity Bootcamps- Fullstack Academy
- Eleven Fifty Academy
- Code Fellows
- Claim Academy
- SecureSet
- DevLeague
What Is a Cybersecurity Bootcamp?
General coding bootcamps offer broad training across programming and computer science. Cybersecurity bootcamps focus on information security knowledge, skills, and best practices.
Depending on the bootcamp, course material may appear in written, pre-recorded, or live lecture formats. Students engage with independent assignments and group exercises to build knowledge of industry-standard cybersecurity applications.
Cybersecurity bootcamps come in a variety of formats:
- Fully online, in person, or hybrid
- Full or part time
- Self-paced or instructor-led
- University-affiliated or independent/private
The fastest cybersecurity bootcamps run 13-14 weeks. The longest can take over 25 weeks to complete. In comparison, an associate degree in cybersecurity takes approximately two years, and a bachelor's degree takes around four years.
In addition to cutting-edge course material, bootcamps also provide support services to students. These commonly include financial aid, live tutoring, instructor feedback sessions, and job placement support.
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Cybersecurity Online Bootcamps
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Skills Learned in Cybersecurity Bootcamps
Through theoretical lessons, case studies, and hands-on assignments, the best cybersecurity bootcamps explore many topics. Students learn about fundamental scripting techniques, industry-standard tools, threat intelligence, and security policy development.
A handful of common skills gained in an online cybersecurity bootcamp include:
- Risk Assessment: Before developing effective strategies, cybersecurity professionals must know how to evaluate potential security risks. Bootcamp students learn to identify system vulnerabilities and understand the difference between real and nonexistent threats. Coursework teaches students to assess various risks to systems, networks, and applications.
- Incident Response: Cybersecurity professionals cannot protect systems from every threat. To prepare for the inevitable, bootcamp participants learn how to develop incident response policies and plans for an organization. Coursework lessons also commonly cover best practices for applied incident response skills, including threat identification, eradication, and recovery.
- Penetration Testing: Cybersecurity bootcamp students learn applied skills in penetration testing to measure and enhance security. Competencies include understanding which tools to use and how to mount attacks against different networks and applications. Bootcamps also teach countermeasures to combat these types of attacks and gain access to compromised machines.
- Cryptography: Cryptography refers to the process used to secure communication and information shared between two parties. Cybersecurity bootcamps explore essential cryptography knowledge and techniques. These include encryption algorithms and best practices, data transfer security, and determining the protection needs for varying types of information.
Best Cybersecurity Bootcamps
Cybersecurity bootcamps help learners upgrade their tech skills and train for new computer science careers. These short, intensive programs deliver practical, career-focused skills training. We list all featured programs in alphabetical order.
Below, you can explore program details for six popular cybersecurity bootcamps in the United States. We also cover each bootcamp's coursework, targeted skills and proficiencies, tuition rates, and job placement support.
Fullstack Academy
Fullstack Academy ranks among the leading names in bootcamp education. More than 840 companies hire graduates of this New York City-based bootcamp, including tech giants like Amazon, Google, and Spotify.
Cybersecurity Analytics Bootcamp
Fullstack Academy hosts its intensive cybersecurity bootcamp at its New York City campus. Suitable for beginners, it runs for 13-26 weeks and includes five phases.
In phase one, students cover foundational fundamentals. Phase two applies basic coding skills to build cybersecurity proficiencies. In phases three and four, students engage in team-based deep dives into topics like ethical hacking, penetration testing, and threat modeling. The bootcamp concludes with an individual final project.
- Cost: $15,980
- Format: On campus; full or part time
- Length: 13-26 weeks
- CIRR Member: Yes
Other Courses Offered by Fullstack Academy
- Full-time, part-time, and online coding bootcamps
- Data Analytics Bootcamp
Fullstack Academy's Job Placement Assistance
Fullstack Academy offers extensive employment support including resume and job search assistance, networking opportunities, and interview training. Program alumni qualify for ongoing job placement assistance after graduation.
Eleven Fifty Academy
Indiana-based Eleven Fifty Academy is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Its founding mission is to bridge Indiana's technology education gap.
Cybersecurity Bootcamp
Eleven Fifty Academy's full-time cybersecurity program helps professionals of all academic backgrounds train for entry-level tech careers. Its curriculum was designed by experts and targets the essential skills organizations need to protect their digital assets.Students do not need any prior coding knowledge. Learners build fundamental skills during the early stages of the bootcamp. Students then complete simulation sessions that accurately replicate real-life cyberattacks. Participants also take tests leading to internationally recognized CompTIA Network+ and Security+ certifications.
- Cost: $18,000
- Format: Online or on campus; full or part time
- Length: 14 weeks (full time); 24 weeks (part time)
- CIRR Member: Yes
Other Courses Offered by Eleven Fifty Academy
- Web Development
- Software Development
- IT Professional
- UX/UI Design
Eleven Fifty Academy's Job Placement Assistance
Eleven Fifty Academy provides one-on-one job placement assistance. Its graduates earn an average starting salary of $54,000. The institution boasts a 91% graduation rate and a 75% job placement rate.
Code Fellows
Code Fellows launched in 2013 in Seattle as the city's first coding bootcamp. Its alumni network included more than 1,500 graduates.
Ops 401: Cybersecurity Engineering
Code Fellows' cybersecurity program builds on skills developed in its foundational courses. These include the Ops 101, Ops 102, Ops 201, and Ops 301 programs.
In Ops 401, students complete 10 modules. The first half of the program focuses on five modules, covering governance, data security, security operations, cloud security, and a midterm project.The other modules delve into more intensive subjects and a final project. Topics include threat modeling, advanced security operations, application security and vulnerability, and penetration testing.
- Cost: $12,000
- Format: Online; full or part time
- Length: 10 weeks (full time); 23 weeks (part time)
- CIRR Member: No
Other Courses Offered by Code Fellows
- Software Development Code 101
- Software Development Code 102
- Software Development Code 201
- Software Development Code 301
Code Fellows' Job Placement Assistance
Code Fellows maintains a dedicated Career Transition Services department. There, students engage in training, networking, and mentorship opportunities. The school has a 93% in-field job placement rate.
Claim Academy
Missouri-based Claim Academy offers software engineering and cybersecurity bootcamps for learners of all skill levels. Alumni work for major companies including IBM, MasterCard, and Wells Fargo.
Cybersecurity
The full-time program covers targeted topics in a week-by-week format. It begins with foundational basics before exploring common computer viruses and malware. Learners then proceed into advanced subjects like security strategies, risk assessment and monitoring, and cryptography.
The cybersecurity bootcamp concludes with a special session that prepares students for the CompTIA Security+ certification examination. Students can also enroll part time, covering the same material at a slower pace.
- Cost: $13,998
- Format: Online or on campus; full or part time
- Length: 14 weeks (full time); 20 weeks (part time)
- CIRR Member: No
Other Courses Offered by [Bootcamp]
- Java Full-Stack Software Developer
- C#./NET Full-Stack Software Developer
- JavaScript Front-End Software Developer
Claim Academy's Job Placement Assistance
Claim Academy's programs include placement assistance, mentoring sessions, networking events, and career coaching. Students also build soft skills and interview skills in targeted sessions.
SecureSet
Founded in 2014 by a Ph.D. expert in cybersecurity, SecureSet's first class graduated in 2016. More than 500 students have since enrolled in the organization's programs.
CORE Cybersecurity Engineering
Covering 800 intensive hours, SecureSet's immersive cybersecurity engineering bootcamp emphasizes skills development. Students build proficiencies in threat intelligence, system security, cryptography, and strategic analysis.
This cybersecurity bootcamp covers 12 technical courses. Graduates learn ethical hacking skills to defend networks from unauthorized intrusions. Learners can choose to attend SecureSet's Denver or Colorado Springs campus. SecureSet also offers instruction at two Flatiron School locations in New York City.
- Cost: $20,000
- Format: On campus; full time
- Length: 20 weeks
- CIRR Member: No
Other Courses Offered by SecureSet
- PREP Cybersecurity Workshop
- PATH Part-Time Programs
SecureSet's Job Placement Assistance
SecureSet offers cybersecurity bootcamp participants access to its exclusive network of hiring partners. The company reports that the majority of its graduates land cybersecurity jobs within six months of graduation.
DevLeague
Hawaii-based DevLeague offers challenging yet rewarding computer science bootcamps in software engineering and cybersecurity. Its network of employment partners exceeds 70 companies, including Microsoft, Google, and multiple major video game studios.
Cybersecurity Professional Bootcamp
DevLeague's cybersecurity bootcamp begins with a one-month preparatory session that blends online and classroom learning. Students then proceed to core coursework, which follows a part-time schedule with classes three days per week. It covers a total of 840 classroom hours, delivered in 15 modules branded as "missions."
Early "missions" cover basic fundamentals including hardware, operating systems, and networking. Beginning with "Mission 3," learners immerse themselves in cybersecurity topics. The bootcamp culminates with a "top-secret final mission," in which students' complete rigorous tests.
- Cost: $14,500
- Format: Hybrid; part time
- Length: 34 weeks
- CIRR Member: No
Other Courses Offered by DevLeague
- Full-Stack Developer - Software Engineering
DevLeague's Job Placement Assistance
DevLeague actively maintains partnerships with a growing list of high-profile employers who actively recruit students from its bootcamps. Graduates also qualify for alumni networking and mentorship opportunities.
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MATCH ME TO A BOOTCAMPWhat Will a Cybersecurity Bootcamp Cost?
Cybersecurity bootcamps typically cost less than traditional college degrees. Still, they require a substantial financial investment.
For cybersecurity bootcamps specifically, the most affordable programs start at around $10,000. More expensive options range from $15,000-$18,000.
According to 2018 data collected by Course Report, coding bootcamp students across all specializations spent an average of $11,900 in tuition. For cybersecurity bootcamps specifically, the most affordable programs start at around $10,000. More expensive options range from $15,000-$18,000.
Students may incur additional expenses for preparation courses, study materials, and software. Bootcamps often require learners to use their own desktop or laptop computer. Other key supplies to purchase include notebooks, a planner, and a webcam/headset.
Many bootcamps offer financial support in the form of scholarships, discounts for veterans, low-interest loan financing, or flexible tuition rates. In some cases, students pay nothing until they graduate and land a job in cybersecurity.
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What Jobs Can I Get After a Cybersecurity Bootcamp?
The best cybersecurity bootcamps train graduates for a variety of technical careers. These careers improve the safety and security of networks, applications, and data. Popular jobs titles include penetration tester, security analyst, and information security manager. Some of the following careers may require additional work experience or education beyond a bootcamp.
Penetration Tester
Penetration testers probe networks, applications, and devices, looking for areas vulnerable to cyberattack. Common tasks include conducting penetration tests according to industry best practices, documenting findings for management, and recommending mitigation strategies. An online cybersecurity bootcamp offers sufficient training for a penetration testing career.
Average Annual Salary (November 2021): $87,640
Security Engineer
Security engineers solve computer security issues in an organization. Common tasks include searching for vulnerabilities, creating automated scripts to identify and respond to incidents, and configuring firewalls and other security devices. An experienced IT professional can complete a cybersecurity bootcamp to prepare for a security engineering job.
Average Annual Salary (November 2021): $94,790
Security Analyst
Information security analysts protect computer networks and systems from cyberattacks. Common tasks include monitoring for security breaches, completing investigations, preparing reports, and developing security standards for their organization. Employers often seek bachelor's graduates or cybersecurity bootcamp graduates with proven skills and prior technology experience.
Median Annual Salary: $103,950
Job Outlook (2020-30): +33%
Information Security Manager
Information security managers oversee a company's IT security protocols. Common tasks include reviewing and developing security strategies, supervising IT staff, and performing maintenance checks and updates to software and hardware. A cybersecurity bootcamp offers essential knowledge and skills for information security managers.
Average Annual Salary (November 2021): $118,400
Security Architect
Security architects lead the development of a company's IT security systems. Common tasks include creating designs and planning functions, delegating to programming teams, and integrating new security structures into their organization's existing systems. A cybersecurity bootcamp offers foundational knowledge that IT professionals can use to move toward this advanced career.
Average Annual Salary (November 2021): $125,350
Other Cybersecurity Education Options
In-person and online cybersecurity bootcamps provide fundamental IT security skills and knowledge. Still, in some cases, professionals need additional education. For advanced careers, a degree may be a better option than a bootcamp.
- Learn More About Associate Degrees in Cybersecurity"
- Learn More About Bachelor's Degrees in Cybersecurity
Explore Cybersecurity Bootcamps
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
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Cybersecurity Bootcamp Questions
Is a cybersecurity bootcamp worth it?
For motivated, tech-savvy learners, cybersecurity bootcamps are worth the commitment. The best cybersecurity bootcamps prepare graduates for lucrative careers in just a few months. Bootcamps also cost less than traditional degrees.
How can I get into cybersecurity with no experience?
Completing a cybersecurity bootcamp can help you start a career without previous experience. Bootcamp graduates may impress employers by earning industry certifications or building portfolios of relevant skills and competencies.
Are cybersecurity bootcamps hard?
Cybersecurity bootcamps offer an intensive, fast-paced route to entry-level opportunities. This education format also comes with challenges. Bootcamp students need strong self-motivation to complete hands-on assignments and work through difficult computer science concepts.
Is cybersecurity in-demand?
Cybersecurity is one of the nation's most in-demand technology sectors. Increasing cyberattacks drive a projected 33% growth in employment for information security analysts from 2020-2030, according to the BLS.
Bootcamps offered in partnership with Trilogy Education Services
Trilogy Education Services describes itself as a "workforce accelerator." The company partners with accredited universities to help employers fill job vacancies and close cybersecurity gaps.
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