SMU Cybersecurity Boot Camp

decorative image representing cybersecurity
Classes begin quarterly

Submit your application today. All classes are being offered through our proven virtual classroom experience. Learn more.


Learn Cybersecurity in 24 Weeks

Online Dallas Cybersecurity Boot Camp

Big data needs big protection. That’s because 90 percent of the world’s data has been created in just the last two years*. And as computer networks grow, so too does the quantity of vulnerable information.

The 24-week Cybersecurity Boot Camp is a challenging, part-time program that takes a multidisciplinary approach to attain proficiency in IT, networking, and modern information security, throughout the course of 24 intensive weeks. 

  • Gain experience with a host of popular tools such as Wireshark, Kali Linux, Metasploit, Nessus, and more.
  • Learn skills applicable to certifications such as the CompTIA Security+, Network+, Linux+, Server+, and Cloud+.
  • Advance your skillset even if you’re currently employed or in school through convenient evening classes.
  • Benefit from a comprehensive set of career services to help equip you for success as you work to change career paths or advance in your current position.

*https://www.statista.com/statistics/871513/worldwide-data-created/

About the Boot Camp

This boot camp, offered in partnership with edX, is made available through a unique consortium delivery model to provide skills-based learning to participants across Dallas and beyond. Participants will be taught by a university-approved instructor, while learning alongside students from other consortium-participating universities and institutions. Upon meeting the completion requirements, participants will be issued a certificate from SMU Continuing and Professional Education (CAPE).

person looking at their laptop

Why apply?

If you are craving to expand your knowledge and learn how to keep data safe from prying eyes, or if any of the below describe you, enrolling in this program might be the move you need to help you achieve your goals:

  • You are currently a technical professional, such as a web developer, network administrator, or help desk technician, who wants to better understand how to keep data secure.
  • You are a manager in a company whose revenue depends on the confidentiality, availability, and integrity of client data.
  • You are looking to move into Cybersecurity from an already technical field, such as systems administration.
  • You are a tech enthusiast looking to get your foot in the door in the world of networking and security.

Learn Market-Driven Skills

Building On The Basics

Achieving your goals in cybersecurity requires not only deep security knowledge but also experience with the application of that knowledge. Our curriculum is designed to give you both the knowledge you need to move toward the cybersecurity industry and ample experience applying that knowledge to real-world problems.

Throughout the program, you will learn tools and technologies vetted by current practitioners, and learn skills applicable to three certifications expected of all serious security professionals.

At SMU Cybersecurity Boot Camp, students get hands-on training in networking, systems, web technologies, databases, and defensive and offensive cybersecurity. You will also learn methods, techniques, and best practices for accurately conveying the severity of the risks facing an organization’s security posture.

You’ll learn from skilled instructors and gain real-world experience by collaborating with your peers. Through hands-on application, you’ll gain the confidence you need to tap into the industry. The curriculum* will dive into the foundational skills for cybersecurity, including:

Networking:

  • Packet Analysis
  • Wireshark

Systems:

  • Windows and Linux Administration Techniques
  • Windows and Linux Hardening

Cybersecurity:

  • Secure Network Design and Architecture
  • Risk Management
  • Cryptography
  • Vulnerability Assessment
  • Identity and Access Management

Ethical Hacking and Penetration:

  • Kali Linux
  • Metasploit
  • Hashcat
  • Burp Suite
  • Web Vulnerabilities and Security

Cybersecurity Careers:

  • Digital Forensics Incident Response
  • Penetration Testing
  • Vulnerability Assessment
  • Security Operations and Analytics

Programming and Scripting:

  • Bash Scripting
  • PowerShell Scripting

*The material covered is subject to change. Our academic team adjusts to the market demand.

By the time you complete the program, you will know how to:

person working at their laptop
  • Conduct vulnerability assessments using tools like Metasploit to profile an application for vulnerabilities, and then exploit those vulnerabilities
  • Utilize specific AI/ML techniques for threat detection, prevention, and offensive security strategies
  • Identify suspicious patterns of user behavior to identify bots, intruders, and other malicious actors
  • Write Bash scripts to automate security and operating systems tasks

Frequently Asked Questions

The part-time cybersecurity program is 6 months (24 weeks) long.

No previous experience is required. Our pre-course tutorials will help you prepare for the Cybersecurity Boot Camp.

No, you do not need to be an SMU student to enroll in SMU Cybersecurity Boot Camp. The program is offered through SMU Continuing and Professional Education (CAPE)

SMU Cybersecurity Boot Camp in the Dallas area is being held through our tried and tested virtual classroom. For more information on how to apply to this program, please fill out our contact form or call to speak with admissions at (214) 775-9982.

Part-Time Schedule

  • 24-week program
  • Classes are held three weekdays from 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. CT

Currently Enrolling


» UX/UI Boot Camp Part-Time 01/13/25

» AI Boot Camp Part-Time 01/13/25

» Coding Part-Time Online 01/13/25

» Coding Full-Time Online 12/16/24

» Data Science Part-Time Online 03/24/25

» Cybersecurity Part-Time Online 12/16/24


Ready to learn more about SMU Cybersecurity Boot Camp? Contact an admissions advisor at (214) 775-9982.


Get Program Info

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