American University Cybersecurity Professional Program
Accelerate Your Career With Virtual, Hands-On Cybersecurity Training
Become a Cybersecurity Professional
Envision a Fulfilling Career
The American University Cybersecurity Professional Program takes learners who have no experience in the field and gets them job-ready and fully qualified to meet the demands of today's job market in just 9 months. It focuses on getting you prepared with the exact skills needed to find employment in the field.
Gain Marketable Skills to Succeed in the Field
Accelerated, Practical Cybersecurity Training
Develop the advanced skills you’ll need from day one on the job by training on the cybersecurity industry’s top tools and software.
Learn to Defend Against Cyberattacks
Hands-On Training
Our program is crafted to prepare you for real-world cybersecurity challenges. Through interactive, hands-on projects, you’ll develop essential offensive and defensive skills that can be applied on the job from day one.
Virtual Learning Environment
Gain cybersecurity expertise through part-time, virtual classes held on weekdays. Our online platform offers access to recorded sessions, a variety of virtual communication tools, and a supportive community of professionals and peers. Plus, our curriculum is continuously updated to include the latest advancements in cybersecurity, including innovative AI tools and practices.
Expert-Led Instruction
Learn from seasoned cybersecurity professionals who bring years of industry experience directly into the classroom. Benefit from their insights, mentorship, and guidance with each cohort.
TDX Arena
Develop job-ready skills in TDX Arena, our exclusive virtual training platform. This environment offers daily practice exercises, real-world cyberattack simulations, and immersive, gamified learning experiences to ensure a well-rounded path to cybersecurity mastery.
Student Support Hub
Enhance your learning with tailored support, including course-specific review sessions, dedicated office hours, and personalized 1:1 guidance for career coaching, mentoring, and academic assistance.
Weekly Review Sessions
Reinforce key concepts and build confidence with weekly, two-hour review sessions held on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings, facilitated by subject matter experts to provide course-specific support.
Benefit From Built-In Support at Every Turn
An Ecosystem of Professionals Dedicated to Your Success
Student Support
Student success managers follow learners and help them thrive throughout the program. They can help you access a wealth of resources, including tutoring sessions and test retakes, so you can stay on track and always get the support you need.
Career Coaching
During the program, you will be matched with career coaches to help you pinpoint your professional goals and chart a path forward to the opportunities that are right for you. They will assist in polishing your resume and LinkedIn profiles, prep you for interviews, and more.
Professional Community
Attend live virtual events with career fairs, industry panels, mock interview days, skill-building webinars, and more.
Job Search Assistance
Looking for job opportunities can be overwhelming and time-consuming, especially as a new entrant to the industry. Our Career Outcomes team is committed to helping you pinpoint the best roles for you and jumpstart your professional path in cybersecurity
Check Out the Course Catalog
Explore Our Cybersecurity Classes
Program Overview
4-Week Introductory Course | 32-Week Complete Program
- Introductory Course4 Weeks
Take your initial step into cybersecurity with this 4-week Introductory Course. You’ll cover networking basics, delve into security for Linux and Microsoft systems, and explore offensive security techniques. An end-of-course assessment will help you determine if cybersecurity is your ideal path.
- 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
This course introduces you to the fundamentals of computer networking, focusing on configuring and securing network devices to maximize performance. Through hands-on practice, you’ll develop problem-solving skills for navigating complex networking environments.
Course Highlights:
- Hands-on training in network device setup and security.
- Practical skills for troubleshooting and optimizing network performance.
- A solid grasp of network protocols and security protocols.
Information covered in this course helps prepare learners to begin studying for the following certifications:* CompTIA®  Network+, ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurityâ„
- Microsoft Security Systems Administration
In this hands-on course, you’ll learn how to secure Microsoft Windows environments by using tools like Microsoft Defender and Windows Firewall. The course emphasizes skills in network configuration and security management through system administration practices.
Course Highlights:
- Gain expertise in Microsoft infrastructure and security.
- Master techniques for securing user accounts and managing permissions.
- Explore automation for increased security and efficiency.
- Understand Active Directory’s role in network protection.
- Build hands-on skills in configuring secure Microsoft networks.
- Integrating Your Infrastructure Security
This course focuses on infrastructure security across Linux systems, cloud computing, and basic Python programming. You’ll also learn to monitor threats and vulnerabilities, applying remediation strategies to safeguard systems.
Course Highlights:
- Manage Linux systems and secure cloud environments.
- Learn Python programming basics for security and automation.
- Hands-on experience with AWS cloud security.
- Monitor and respond to system threats and vulnerabilities.
- Explore the importance of DevSecOps in cybersecurity.
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 techniques for securing wired and wireless networks. Topics include developing access controls, establishing secure networks, and using monitoring and encryption to protect data and devices.
Course Highlights:
- Identify and secure vulnerabilities in both wired and wireless networks.
- Develop network monitoring skills for sustained security.
- Create access controls to safeguard network resources.
- Understand encryption’s role in privacy and security.
- Hands-on training in designing secure network infrastructures.
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
This course covers essential skills for designing secure infrastructures, focusing on endpoint protection, data loss prevention, and securing IoT devices. You’ll work hands-on with advanced tools to protect digital assets.
Course Highlights:
- Techniques for securing endpoint devices.
- Implement data loss prevention to protect key data.
- Secure IoT and industrial systems.
- Track and document configuration settings.
- Practical experience with cutting-edge cybersecurity tools.
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
In this course, you’ll learn to use ethical hacking techniques and analyze social engineering tactics to defend against cyber threats. Understand the motives behind attacks and how to safeguard systems from human and technological threats.
Course Highlights:
- Learn how social engineering bypasses security measures.
- Ethical hacking techniques to fortify system security.
- Hands-on experience with penetration testing and vulnerability assessments.
- Methods for reporting vulnerabilities and strengthening security.
- Insights into psychological manipulation used in cyberattacks.
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 essentials of digital forensics and incident response. You’ll investigate cyber incidents, recover data, and document findings using forensic tools to improve overall security.
Course Highlights:
- Investigate security incidents with digital forensics.
- Recover compromised data and analyze digital evidence.
- Techniques for documenting cyberattacks.
- Respond to and document cyber incidents.
- Experience in preparing forensic reports.
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 teaches essential threat hunting and intelligence skills. You’ll learn to detect vulnerabilities proactively, respond to cyber threats, and use intelligence to bolster infrastructure security.
Course Highlights:
- Fundamentals of threat hunting and vulnerability detection.
- Skills for gathering and analyzing threat intelligence.
- Strategies for real-time response to cyber incidents.
- Develop robust security plans to reduce risk.
- Secure organizational infrastructure against cyber threats.
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 prep course for the CompTIA® Security+ exam, you’ll gain hands-on skills essential for the certification. This course helps you demonstrate core cybersecurity competencies to advance your career.
Certification Highlights:
- Core cybersecurity skills applicable to various roles.
- Emphasis on practical, hands-on experience in cybersecurity.
- A globally respected certification valued by employers.
*For more information, please visit https://thrivedx.com/cybersecurity-program-disclaimers.
*For more information, please visit https://thrivedx.com/cybersecurity-program-disclaimers.
Prepare Yourself for Industry-Standard Exams
Certifications are an excellent way to showcase your cybersecurity expertise. Our courses equip you with the essential knowledge required to pursue respected industry certifications and advance your career.
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam is geared toward individuals with an introductory knowledge of the AWS Cloud platform, its infrastructure, and key systems. A focus on AWS security and compliance is essential for passing.
The Cybersecurity Program 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.Â
*For more information, please visit https://thrivedx.com/cybersecurity-program-disclaimers.
Certified Information Security Manager
The Certified Information Security Manager® (CISM®) certification provides IT professionals with expertise in risk assessment, governance implementation, and incident response. CISM holders are equipped to address the modern cybersecurity challenges posed by data breaches, ransomware, and other threats.
CertNexus® CyberSec First Responder® (CFR)
The Cybersecurity Professional Program enables students to gain the foundational skills needed to pursue the CertNexus® CyberSec First Responder® (CFR) certification, which focuses on incident response and cybersecurity threat mitigation. A 20% discount on CertNexus® exam fees and prep materials is provided to learners post-program.*
*For more information, please visit https://thrivedx.com/cybersecurity-program-disclaimers.
Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate
The Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate certification builds a foundational understanding of how Security Operations Centers (SOC) detect and respond to security incidents. It’s an ideal entry-level certification for anyone starting a career in cybersecurity operations.
CompTIA® CySA+
CompTIA® CySA+ is an intermediate-level certification that emphasizes the use of behavioral analytics in cybersecurity. Covering core cybersecurity skills, it focuses on application security, automation, threat hunting, and compliance requirements, offering a broader scope than the CompTIA® Security+ exam.
CompTIA® Network+
The CompTIA® Network+ certification assesses an individual’s expertise in network device configuration, management, and troubleshooting. The exam also covers emerging cloud, communication, and virtualization technologies critical to cybersecurity.
Certified Incident Handler
The GIAC Incident Handler certification (GCIH) validates expertise in detecting, responding to, and managing computer security incidents. Certification holders possess knowledge of common attack methods and are trained to defend against and mitigate cyber threats effectively.
GIAC Security Essentials
The GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC) certification demonstrates an understanding of core security concepts and technical skills necessary for handling hands-on IT systems security. GSEC holders are recognized for their capability to perform practical security tasks.
ISC2 SSCP – Systems Security Certified Practitioner**
After gaining at least a year of experience, cybersecurity professionals can pursue the ISC2 SSCP certification, which validates practical, hands-on skills. This certification confirms expertise in implementing, monitoring, and administering IT security following industry standards.*Â
*Requires a minimum of one year of cumulative work experience in one or more of the seven domains of the SSCP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK) in order to be certified.
LPI Linux Essentials
The LPI Linux Essentials certification allows candidates to validate their understanding of Linux fundamentals, including open-source software applications. This exam covers user and group management, Linux command-line proficiency, system permissions, basic network configuration, and foundational Linux administration skills.
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam is geared toward individuals with an introductory knowledge of the AWS Cloud platform, its infrastructure, and key systems. A focus on AWS security and compliance is essential for passing.
The Cybersecurity Program 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.Â
*For more information, please visit https://thrivedx.com/cybersecurity-program-disclaimers.
- Certified Information Security Manager
The Certified Information Security Manager® (CISM®) certification provides IT professionals with expertise in risk assessment, governance implementation, and incident response. CISM holders are equipped to address the modern cybersecurity challenges posed by data breaches, ransomware, and other threats.
- CertNexus® CyberSec First Responder® (CFR)
The Cybersecurity Professional Program enables students to gain the foundational skills needed to pursue the CertNexus® CyberSec First Responder® (CFR) certification, which focuses on incident response and cybersecurity threat mitigation. A 20% discount on CertNexus® exam fees and prep materials is provided to learners post-program.*
*For more information, please visit https://thrivedx.com/cybersecurity-program-disclaimers.
- Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate
The Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate certification builds a foundational understanding of how Security Operations Centers (SOC) detect and respond to security incidents. It’s an ideal entry-level certification for anyone starting a career in cybersecurity operations.
- CompTIA® CySA+
CompTIA® CySA+ is an intermediate-level certification that emphasizes the use of behavioral analytics in cybersecurity. Covering core cybersecurity skills, it focuses on application security, automation, threat hunting, and compliance requirements, offering a broader scope than the CompTIA® Security+ exam.
- CompTIA® Network+
The CompTIA® Network+ certification assesses an individual’s expertise in network device configuration, management, and troubleshooting. The exam also covers emerging cloud, communication, and virtualization technologies critical to cybersecurity.
- Certified Incident Handler
The GIAC Incident Handler certification (GCIH) validates expertise in detecting, responding to, and managing computer security incidents. Certification holders possess knowledge of common attack methods and are trained to defend against and mitigate cyber threats effectively.
- GIAC Security Essentials
The GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC) certification demonstrates an understanding of core security concepts and technical skills necessary for handling hands-on IT systems security. GSEC holders are recognized for their capability to perform practical security tasks.
- ISC2 SSCP – Systems Security Certified Practitioner
After gaining at least a year of experience, cybersecurity professionals can pursue the ISC2 SSCP certification, which validates practical, hands-on skills. This certification confirms expertise in implementing, monitoring, and administering IT security following industry standards.*Â
*Requires a minimum of one year of cumulative work experience in one or more of the seven domains of the SSCP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK) in order to be certified.
- LPI Linux Essentials
The LPI Linux Essentials certification allows candidates to validate their understanding of Linux fundamentals, including open-source software applications. This exam covers user and group management, Linux command-line proficiency, system permissions, basic network configuration, and foundational Linux administration skills.
Program Tuition
Invest in your professional development with the job-ready skill set you need to enter the field of cybersecurity.
$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.
