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Break into tech with

Cybersecurity

Gain skills and a Google Certificate in 21 weeks without quitting your day job. Pay $0 upfront.

  • 21 weeks
  • 20~25 hrs/week
Two Merit America alumni smile while holding a laptop.
Why Cybersecurity

Why Cybersecurity?

Considering a career change into tech? Cybersecurity is a rapidly growing field that offers engaging, challenging, and rewarding work. With the ever-evolving landscape of cyberattacks and the increasing reliance on digital systems, cybersecurity skills are becoming some of the most in-demand in the job market.

Competitive Compensation: Cybersecurity analysts are in high demand across all industries, with median entry-level salaries nearing $85,000.

In-Demand Careers: With a Google Cybersecurity Certificate and professional skills training from our best-in-class coaches, you’ll open doors to over 213,000 entry-level U.S. cybersecurity job openings across both small businesses and large organizations.

Fulfilling Work: Engage in roles that are not just tech-centric but also people-centric, ensuring the security and integrity of digital infrastructure. Many cybersecurity roles offer flexible schedules, promoting a healthy work-life balance. Our alumni land roles such as Cybersecurity Analyst, Security Administrator, Incident Responder, Threat Detection Analyst, Vulnerability Analyst, Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst, Cyber Intelligence Specialist, Penetration Tester, IT Support Specialist, Helpdesk Technician, Systems Support Analyst, and Information Security Technician.

An alumn of the Merit America UX Design course smiles behind a laptop.

Hear What Our Cybersecurity Alumni Have To Say

At Merit, I learned IT skills beyond computer repairs—I gained real, hands-on skills for cybersecurity.

Otavio Cybersecurity Analyst
Otavio Headshot

Merit America showed me I don’t need a 4-year degree. I have the skills and know how to prove it and present myself.

Michael Director of Communications
Michael Headshot

I actually applied to three jobs and actually heard back from all three!

Amber Quality Assurance Technician
Amber Wilcotts

Merit America gave me confidence and helped me see my value, especially with interview skills and resume support.

John Application Security Administrator
John Black headshot
$0 Upfront Tuition

Get started with $0 upfront

Build a career based on your potential, not your bank account.

A Merit America learner receiving one-on-one career coaching and job placement support.
  1. Learn in-demand skills
  2. Land a great job
  3. Pay only after the program
  4. Support the next class
Flexible Schedule

Work Life Balance

Your third-party coursework and Merit America career coaching services are online. Live meetings are only 3-5 hours per week. You can complete the coursework in-between work shifts, on weekends – whatever works for your life.

A woman sits on the floor, working her remote job in tech.

My Calendar

Monday, January 10

Merit America Program

  • At Work  8am – 3pm
  • Online Coursework  3pm – 5pm
  • Daycare pick-up  5:15pm
  • Family Dinner  6pm
  • 1:1 Career Coaching  8pm
Supported Learning

Work with a team dedicated to your success

Meet regularly with a career coach and squad of your peers to keep you on track. After you finish, you’ll join a network of thousands of Merit America alumni.

Chat

  • Michael, Career Coach

    How’s your coursework going this week?

  • Cora

    I’m really struggling with my resume…

  • Michael, Career Coach

    You’ve got this! Let me connect you with our job success coach, Teresa.

    Also, something to look forward to: you’re only one week away from completing your Google Certificate!

How does Merit America Compare?

Merit AmericaTech BootcampCommunity College
Course Length21 weeks20-24 weeks50-100 weeks
In person/RemoteRemoteRemoteIn-person/Remote
Part-time? 20-25 hours/week Varies Varies
Maximum Payment/Tuition$5,700$16,000-$19,000$5,000-$10,000
Certificate Google Cybersecurity Professional CertificateVaries
Yes
Organization TypeNon-profit (Merit America collaborates with for-profits)For-profitFor-profit or Non-profit
Coaching and Job Search Support Yes Yes Varies
Downside Protection Yes Varies No
Curriculum

Get the Cybersecurity skills employers are looking for

  • Cybersecurity Foundations

Fundamentals of Cybersecurity

Merit America’s Cybersecurity program establishes a solid foundation in key areas such as information security, network security, cryptography, and threat analysis through the Google Cybersecurity Certificate. You’ll develop skills to identify and assess critical threats, vulnerabilities, and risks, enabling you to implement effective system hardening techniques and secure networks against common intrusion tactics. This program prepares you to understand data transmission methods and classify assets, equipping you with the knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of the cybersecurity field.

  • Technical Specialization

Learn Cybersecurity Tools

Gain proficiency in essential cybersecurity tools and technologies through hands-on experience with Python, Linux, SQL, and industry-standard platforms like Splunk, Wireshark, and Tcpdump. You’ll explore vital domains, including Information Security, Network Security, and Threat Analysis, while mastering cryptography and security frameworks such as NIST CSF and RMF. This comprehensive training prepares you to effectively secure networks and protect critical assets against emerging cyber threats.

  • Professional Skills

Mastering the job search

Building a career in cybersecurity involves more than just technical skills, and Merit America’s career coaching ensures you’re fully prepared. You’ll work on real-world cybersecurity projects, including incident detection, threat assessments, and security audits, showcasing your skills effectively. Additionally, you’ll receive personalized support to craft tailored resumes and cover letters for cybersecurity roles while practicing answers to common interview questions, equipping you to confidently navigate the job market and pursue a fulfilling career in cybersecurity.

Our alums work for the world’s top tech companies

FAQ
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Two career changers view Merit America's curriculum

Frequently Asked Questions

Resources
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