The need for cybersecurity continues to grow as our world becomes more and more connected. However, with more opportunity comes the need for more training and knowledge. Certifications can help you learn more through hands-on education and position yourself for a career in cybersecurity. There are many different types of cybersecurity certifications available. Below, we’re exploring how you can gain the knowledge you need and proof of education through qualified certifications in this growing field.

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Choose Your Certification

Whether you are a college student looking for a certification or an active duty military member transitioning into the private sector, you’ll need to research the type of cybersecurity you’re interested in pursuing. Some certification examples include:

• CompTIA security+
• CompTIA network+
• CISM
• CISA
• CISSP
• CompTIA CASP+

Employers are not just looking for workers who are pursuing cybersecurity but rather have specific needs that match their evolving needs.

Depending on your current skills and career goals, you may benefit best from certain certifications over others.

Be sure to also review the requirements, testing methods, and costs that come along with each certification you wish to enroll in.

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Apply to and Complete Courses

Once you’ve determined the cybersecurity certifications you’d like to pursue, it’s time to pick the right place to receive your education.

You can enroll in a college-based course or take on an educational course from an accredited organization.

Going to school in any capacity is going to mean allocating time to study and complete coursework. This, of course, comes on top of the class itself.

Be sure that when you are applying to courses you look at each training program or boot camp and your life schedule accordingly.

For members of the military, it’s important to understand the time commitments for enrollment and how organizations can work around your schedule serving the country.

Furthermore, you’ll want to understand information about the study materials you’ll need. Textbooks, courses, and practice exams can all add up quickly.

Be sure to research additional educational resources provided by whichever organization you enroll with.

Pass Your Exams

Once you’ve found your place of study and have a game plan, executing your mission is the final step. If you want a cybersecurity certification, you’re going to need to pass your exams.

Be sure to confirm that you meet all eligibility requirements of the course and study so that you can be well prepared.

It’s also important to have all of the necessary documents when heading to your testing facility, such as your ID. You’ll also want to take practice tests when you can to better prepare.

Once you receive your results, if you pass, you’ll be awarded your cybersecurity certificate and on your way to begin your career.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Cybersecurity Certificate

While it depends on the certificate you are pursuing, completing a course can take three to six months. Depending on your schedule and interests, it’s important to double-check the expected time to complete a course before enrollment.

At the Cyber Brain Academy, you can receive qualified instruction and trusted certifications on a range of cybersecurity topics in a fraction of the time.

There are live-online training options available to pursue globally recognized cybersecurity certifications that help you accelerate your career.

If you’re in the Armed Forces, the Veteran-owned team has first-hand experience with military life and can help you find the right path for your needs.

You can also take courses with the self-paced option to learn as you go on your schedule.

Contact Cyber Brain Academy to learn more about course offerings, how to receive a $500 exam voucher, military bases with Vets that can help students in person, and more.

On April 24, 2024, the Cyber Brain Academy team will be attending the Fort Knox Education and Credentialing Extravaganza In-Person Fair as a great way for troops to learn up close and personal about cybersecurity options.

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This article is the result of a paid collaboration with Cyber Brain Academy.