Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity Training in Chicago

Chicago

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This course is only offered at select Per Scholas locations. Choose a location to get the most accurate course information.

Our tuition-free cybersecurity training based in Chicago offers the opportunity to earn the Cybersecurity Analyst Certification (CySA+), equipping you with fundamental concepts in security specialties and hands-on training to enter this ever growing field as a cybersecurity analyst. Currently offered online. Previous tech work experience or education preferred.

Per Scholas Chicago is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.

Get Started

  • Remote

No catch. Training and job connections at no cost to you.

Course level

Some technical knowledge recommended ?

Get certified in

  • CompTIA CySA+ ?

Schedule

  • Remote 9AM - 4PM
    Monday through Friday
    15 Weeks

  • *Start and end times may vary based on time zone (under 9-4pm)
  • LIVE & INSTRUCTOR LED

Upcoming course dates

  • 2025 TBD
  • Seats for our 2024 cohorts have been filled. As soon as our 2025 schedule is finalized, our admissions team will follow-up with prospective learners who have passed Admissions Assessments and submitted pre-work to schedule interviews for our 2025 cohorts. Complete an eligibility form to start the process.

While these courses may include either intermediate or advanced material, technical knowledge specified in these listings will be required as a prerequisite for applicants to be considered for admission.

While anyone may apply for this course, some technical background may be helpful.

Applicants with all levels of experience in tech are encouraged to apply.

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Most CISCO IT Essentials certification holders move on to a job in IT support, like a help desk technician. Help desk technicians solve technical issues and work with people.

Gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively demonstrate an overall understanding of the AWS Cloud and start a career in cloud computing.

CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) is an IT workforce certification that applies behavioral analytics to networks and devices to prevent, detect and combat cybersecurity threats through continuous security monitoring.

The Google IT Support Professional Certificate introduces learners to troubleshooting, customer service, networking, operating systems, system administration and security. No prior experience is required.

CompTIA Network+ helps develop a career in IT infrastructure covering troubleshooting, configuring, and managing networks.

Most CompTIA A+ certification holders move on to a job in IT support, like a help desk technician. Help desk technicians solve technical issues and work with people.

In-person learning takes place at one of our facilities across the US.

Remote learners must live within commutable distance of a Per Scholas campus to best facilitate our professional development and post-training employment support. For individuals who live outside of a commutable distance, you may be eligible for our National training courses.

Hybrid courses allow flexibility for learners to participate in the course remotely or in-person based on several factors. Learn more about the course you're interested in by reaching out to your admissions lead or attending an admissions overview after applying.

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Have questions?

We can help with course selection, and answer questions about eligibility requirements and special circumstances. Contact an admissions team member

Tuition-Free Cybersecurity Training in Chicago

Rigorous live instructor-led cybersecurity training that includes hands-on activities using real world servers, tools, and technologies.


Essential Critical Skills Development

Develop critical thinking and problem solving skills to apply in the cybersecurity field


Earn Industry Recognized Credential at No Cost

Learn test taking strategies to best prepare and pass the CySA+ exam


Elective Skills to Support Your Career

Learn Python and electives in the AWS Educate Platform to culminate your learning experience

What does the future hold for you as a Cybersecurity graduate in Chicago?

As a graduate of our cybersecurity training, you will earn the Cybersecurity Analyst Certification (CySA+), equipped with the knowledge to fulfill a wide range of entry-level technology jobs such as:

  • Cyber Security Analyst
  • Junior Desktop Technician
  • Tech Support Engineer

*Remote entry-level roles are difficult to obtain. Regardless of your learning environment, if you do not have more than two years of tech professional experience, be prepared to seek on-premise roles.

*Please note for graduates with less than two years of existing tech professional experience, while you’ll be on the path to your mid-level position, your first role after the training will generally be an entry-level tech support role in order to get the experience needed to advance into beyond entry-level positions.

$47k The average salary cybersecurity graduates make at their first job.

Strengthen Your Tech Professional Profile


Start Your Tech Career in Cybersecurity Wherever You Are

Per Scholas will train you whether you are new to tech or a seasoned veteran looking to upskill. Remain competitive as the industry grows.

Zobaria at podium
Within a few months, I changed from a person with the least-desired skills to one of the most sought-after employees. I have become someone my kids can look up to.

Meet Zobaria Ashraf


Build Your IT Professional Network

Meet and network with working Cybersecurity professionals and visit employer sites to see their operations firsthand.

Monique Little
If someone had told me that this was where I would be now, I would never have believed them. I have a completely different outlook on life. My future is something that I never thought it could be.

Meet Monique Little


Direct Job Placement Support

We match graduates to employers for cybersecurity jobs across sectors and provide career coaching throughout the process.

When you are interviewing a Per Scholas graduate, you already have someone who is committed and prepared for the work world and responsible for their time and availability.

Meet David Jarvis

What You'll Learn


Introduction to Linux and Network Administration

Understand Linux and master Linux commands. Learn how to plan and install a network using real equipment in a virtual environment.


Behavioral Analytics and Security Monitoring

Learn how to detect and combat cybersecurity threats and develop core skills in areas such as threat management and cyber incident response.


Tools and Strategies to Succeed in the Workplace

Gain exposure to tools and techniques employed in the field by real cyber analysts and apply your learning to a final Capstone project.

More Than a Technical Training


Learn to Think Like a Cybersecurity Professional

Prepare to handle real workplace demands by challenging your understanding of course material and scenario problem solving.


Personalized Support

Learners can access the Learner Support Team (LST). LST provides personalized support for life challenges, resources, and tools to manage stressors and strengthen financial capability. LST is here to help learners achieve their personal and financial goals.


Career Advancement for Alumni

Complimentary upskilling opportunities extended to alumni up to two years post graduation to help them match in demand employer hiring profiles and continue their career growth.

Meet Your Instructors

Learn from certified teachers with years of real-world training experience. Our instructors don’t just teach you what you need to know, but how to learn it.

Meet Our Graduates

It feels like I have a purpose. I have grown and changed so much. I tell people what I do, and they can’t believe me! They’re so impressed! I am proud to be one of the many individuals who are changing the face of tech.

Meet Rachel Sokol

How to Be Considered

Meet the Learner Profile Requirements

You may qualify to become a Per Scholas Cybersecurity Learner if you:

  • Are aged 18 or older
  • Have a High School diploma, equivalent, or higher
  • Must be able to provide proof of valid U.S. work authorization
  • Live within commutable distance of the advertised Per Scholas Site
  • Can read, write, and speak in English
  • Can attend classes full-time for the entire duration of the course
  • Are able to start a full-time job after course completion
  • Are ready to make an important commitment to building your future
  • Meet the pre-training income policy guidelines
  • Do not plan to travel outside the U.S. during the duration of the course (learners cannot participate in program activities or access materials during such travel)

Per Scholas is committed to equal opportunity in admission and employment. It is the policy of Per Scholas to provide equal opportunity for all qualified applicants, learners, and employees and to prohibit discrimination based on race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, sexual preference, disability, or marital status. Admissions decisions will not be made based on race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, sexual preference, disability, or marital status.

 

Complete the Multi-Step Admissions Process

1. Submit an Eligibility Form

2. Admissions Overview: Once you submit an Eligibility Form, you’ll be directed to our Admissions Overview registration page. During this virtual webinar, you’ll learn more about our admissions process and next steps.

3. Assessments: Each training requires either an academic assessment, tech assessment or both. Information will be provided in detail at the Admissions Overview.

4. Interview: Individuals who meet the assessment score requirements will be invited to attend a behavioral interview.

5. Offer Letter and Onboarding: The Admissions team will review assessment scores and interview results and offer seats to eligible candidates. Learners are required to submit Enrollment Documentation as part of Onboarding, including Pre-Work.

Please note, this application process is very competitive and not all applicants will be accepted for our limited slots.

Submit Enrollment Documentation, Including Pre-Work Information

Get a head start on your course at Per Scholas!

Required Cybersecurity Pre-Work

Required Courses:

Submission Portal:

Help Resources:

Pre-Work Deadline

Learners must submit their Pre-Work by the following deadlines:

  • 2024 Cohorts
    • Seat Offer Accepted More than 2 weeks Before Course Start Date: Pre-Work is due no later than two weeks of the start of Onboarding.
    • Seat Offer Accepted Less than 2 weeks Before Course Start Date: Pre-Work is due no later than two days before the course starts.
  • 2025 Cohorts
    • Pre-Work is due prior to Seat Offers. Applicants are encouraged to have their Pre-Work completed before they interview.

Additional Optional Cybersecurity Pre-Work

Optional Pre-Work Upload

Linux Journey – Grasshopper Level: If you’re new to Linux, our beginner-friendly resources will help you build a strong foundation and gain confidence in using the command line.

Introduction to Cybersecurity: This introductory course takes you inside the world of cybersecurity. You will learn cybersecurity basics to protect your personal digital life and gain insights into the biggest security challenges companies, governments, and educational institutions face today. Cybersecurity professionals who can protect and defend an organization’s network are in high demand.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kinds of jobs can I get after completing this cybersecurity training?

A wide variety: everything from working in an office supporting other computer users to helping secure a global corporate network or becoming a field technician installing and servicing remote locations. You can also seek a job as a vulnerability tester or a security auditor.

They all fall into the general categories of Cybersecurity analyst and network security technician.

Infrastructure management involves keeping computer systems running smoothly and securely at all times.

Desktop support means helping other people—whether customers or employees—use computer systems and software effectively.

As a security auditor, you can ensure companies adhere to strict government and corporate policies governing the protection of private information.

Starting salaries vary greatly, but the average is about $47,000 per year.

*Remote entry-level roles are difficult to obtain. Regardless of your learning environment, if you do not have more than two years of tech professional experience, be prepared to seek on-premise roles.

*Please note for graduates with less than two years of existing tech professional experience, while you’ll be on the path to your mid-level position, your first role after the training will generally be an entry-level tech support role in order to get the experience needed to advance into beyond entry-level positions.

How can the cybersecurity training be free? Are there hidden fees?

Most people who learn about Per Scholas for the first time think: “Too good to be true.” We know it seems that way, but it is true. Our services are provided at no cost to you, using funds we raise from foundations, corporations, government and generous individuals.

The costs you can prepare for include transportation or childcare—expenses that take care of you so you can focus on your studies.

What professional certifications can I earn?

Students will have the opportunity obtain the CompTIA CySA+ Certification.

Will pre-work be required before enrolling in the course?

To ensure learners are prepared with the skills, abilities, and opportunities for success in courses that do not require existing knowledge, Per Scholas requires learners to complete Pre-Work to be eligible for enrollment.

This ensures Cybersecurity learners, with or without previous experience, are best prepared on Day 1 of their course. Our instruction team has also pulled together additional Optional Pre-Work for learners to support your success best. This is not required for enrollment with Per Scholas but is highly recommended due to the fast-paced, rigorous nature of our bootcamp-style training.

What if I don’t have a laptop? What are the computer requirements?

Computer requirements are determined by each specific curriculum track. During the onboarding process, we will review each learner’s needs on a case-by-case basis. If you have any concerns about your situation, please elevate to the admissions team during the admissions process.

Is there a learner pre-training income policy?

Yes, Per Scholas learners must meet the pre-training income policy requirements. View our Learner Pre-Training Income Policy here.

I receive unemployment insurance benefits or other benefits that require me to spend time working or looking for work. Can I still enroll for training?

Depending on the campus and course, Per Scholas training is approved for people receiving unemployment, as well as other benefits that would ordinarily require them to spend time working or looking for work. If you have questions or concerns about your situation, please contact admissions.

I meet other requirements, but I am not a U.S. citizen and haven’t received my work authorization yet. Can I still apply for training?

Unfortunately, we cannot process your application until you have received clearance to work in the U.S. However, if you are experiencing problems, we may be able to refer you to other organizations that may be able to help.

I have child care responsibilities. Can you accommodate me?

We have onsite staff available to help students navigate childcare options. Ask to speak with the Childcare Navigator when you attend an info session.

I have a disability. Can you accommodate me?

We comply fully with the Americans with Disabilities Act and other relevant laws and regulations. Please contact [email protected] to discuss your specific situation and needs.

Does Per Scholas have a Non-Discrimination policy?

We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin.

Questions? Contact Us!

Have an admissions question? Ask an admissions team member

Phone: 718-991-8400

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Your Course

This course is only offered at select Per Scholas locations. Choose a location to get the most accurate course information.