Home » STEM » Information Technology » Cyber Security » Cyber Security Courses Online in Australia

Cyber Security Courses Online in Australia

A 100% online cyber security course is an opportunity to break into this exciting field. You can build job-ready skills while earning a vocational or university qualification.

Professional man and woman overlooking staff in high-tech computer lab

Looking for a good course in cyber security? Look no further than these lists of Australia's top degrees, certificates, and diplomas. The programs will give you skills to prevent cyber attacks, secure data, and maintain network services.

Study options include short courses for beginners, a bachelor degree to kickstart your career, and postgraduate programs such as graduate certificates, graduate diplomas, and masters degrees. Additionally, government-funded courses are available, including the Certificate IV in Cyber Security.

Index Of Courses

Government Funded Courses

Parliament House in Canberra Australia

Government funded cyber security courses are available for free, or at a heavily subsidised rate. The best way to find free courses is to identify what kind of program you want to do, find the ones, and then check with providers to see funding opportunities.

Always remember that student loans from the Australian Government are often available for accredited qualifications. In the case of TAFE courses such as certificates and diplomas, VET students loans will cover your costs. You only pay the loan back gradually based on annual income.

To be honest, we can't keep up with all the subsidy programs at both state and federal levels. But they generally apply to accredited vocational courses such as these below. As mentioned, find ones you like and then check with the providers to see if you're eligible for government funding.

Certificate IV in Cyber Security

Certificate IV in Cyber Security is a technician level program that provides participants with knowledge and technical skills to seek employment as a cybersecurity technician. The qualification is subsidised by the state and territory governments of NSW, QLD, SA, and VIC. It covers a range of topics such as network security, cloud security, disaster recovery and contingency plans, and legislation. Additionally, the course is available as an Australian Apprenticeship in NT and QLD, offering opportunities to learn new skills and be paid in over 500 different jobs.

Diploma of Information Technology (Cyber Security)

Diploma of Information Technology (Cyber Security) from Upskilled trains students to become Network Security Specialists. The online course has an 18-24 month timeframe, although you can complete it at your own pace. Topics include cybersecurity risk assessments, network security management, threat data analysis, and the design and testing of network servers. Online learners have access to a simulated workplace and resources such as online tutorials, video content, and Pluralsight. For individual students, government funding options include Skilling South Australia, JobTrainer, User Choice (in the ACT), and the Higher Level Skills and Certificate 3 Guarantee in Queensland.

Certificate IV in Information Technology

Certificate IV in Information Technology develops skills in diverse areas such database development, gaming development, networking, programming, systems administration support, and web development. The course has 20 units, including seven core units and 13 elective units. There is a Cyber Security Incident Response set of electives, which include network security, incident identification, response planning and implementation, vulnerability assessment, and threat analysis. The average duration is 15 months at an average cost of $7,283. Fees are subsidised by all state and territory governments. The qualification is available as an Australian Apprenticeship.

Certificate III in Information Technology

Certificate III in Information Technology prepares you for ICT roles, including animation, basic cloud computing, cyber awareness, digital media skills, generalist IT support services, networking, programming, systems, and web development. The course comprises 12 units, including six core units and six elective units. The cyber specialisation covers basic cyber awareness, security, threat assessment, risk management, incident response, and monitoring of ICT systems. The course duration is typically 10 months, and the average cost is $4,384. In all states and territories, the course is both subsidised and available as an Australian Apprenticeship.

Short Courses for Beginners

Secure login with username and password on laptop

Short courses are available for non-IT professionals who want to know more about cybersecurity risks and countermeasures. The online courses are open to anyone. You can enrol even if you have no qualifications or background in the subject. University short courses may be assessed and can advance your career, though they don't count towards a degree.

RMIT Cyber Security Risk and Strategy

RMIT University offers a 100% online 6-week course where you learn about cyber security risks and mitigation strategies. No technical or IT knowledge is required to participate. The course is organised into six weekly modules, covering the basics of cyber security, managing risks, preventing attacks, protecting a business, incident management and how to build on the knowledge you gain. The program is equivalent to a unit of university study. By finishing, you earn an RMIT certificate and verifiable university credential.

Bachelor of Cyber Security

Woman wearing glasses inspecting lines of computer code

If you haven't studied at university before, the conventional way to start a cyber technology career is with a Bachelor of Cyber Security, Bachelor of Information Technology or Bachelor of Computer Science. Three-year bachelor degrees in technology are available through 100% online study. Network engineering is a popular specialisation for the industry, with many current cybersecurity professionals having this background.

CSU Bachelor of Information Technology

Charles Sturt University offers a popular Bachelor of Information Technology degree. Of the four specialisations, future cybersecurity specialists may be most interested in network engineering. "IT Security" is a core unit for all students. Whatever major you choose, the degree and training provide a foundation for any potential career in information technology.

Deakin Bachelor of Cyber Security

Deakin University's Bachelor of Cyber Security allows for a high level of specialisation. The course draws from the Bachelor of Information Technology program and features topics such as cybersecurity analytics, cryptography, and computer crime and digital forensics. You can study in the cloud (online) mode. All students must complete compulsory non-credit units on academic integrity, safety induction and introduction to work placements.

Man in office working at computer

A cyber security graduate certificate is the shortest university course providing an accredited qualification. A 3-4 subject online program is substantial nonetheless and requires 6-8 months of part-time study.

You earn a recognised cybersecurity credential, adding value to your resume. As well, completed subjects count towards a future masters, such as a Masters in Cyber Security, MBA or Master of Technology Management.

Graduate certificates are available in management and professional categories. For most specialisations, you should have a relevant degree and/or experience... READ MORE

Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Analytics

Man wearing glasses in office looking at computer display

Data analytics has many uses and one class of them is to identity, analyse and prevent cyberthreats. Cybersecurity analytics involves the collection and analysis of data such as user data, event logs and firewall interactions.

A Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Analytics teaches you to do cyber security while also building data analytics skills. You gain practical knowledge as well as multi-purpose analytics skills.

To quality for entry to an analytics course, you should normally have a technology degree or professional experience... READ MORE

Graduate Certificate in Data and Cyber Management

Professional man and woman discussing display on laptop

A Graduate Certificate in Data and Cyber Management helps managers use data more safely and effectively. The online course forms part of an MBA program and is suitable for managers without a strong technical background.

Cybersecurity needs often tie in with business uses of data. For example, a company may use customer data analytics to inform decisions. Strong protection comes from placing security controls close to the data.

A data and cyber management course builds knowledge in areas such as risk assessment, threat handling, big data, and cybersecurity laws... READ MORE

Graduate Certificate in Network Security

Professionals in computer lab with many large screens

Network security is about protecting and securely managing information flows within an organisation. Network security is a key element of cybersecurity and the most important job responsibility for many professionals in the industry.

A Graduate Certificate in Network Security explores topics such as data communication technologies, network design, and tiered user models. As well, you may study the robust use of scripting to automate tasks.

Studying network security provides foundational knowledge for many cyber security careers, including Technical Analyst and Governance... READ MORE

Graduate Diploma

Man typing on laptop with secure lock symbol floating above

A Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security is the right length of course for many professionals wanting to advance their cybersecurity careers. You're able to build foundation skills as well as develop advanced skills in certain areas. In Australia's, a graduate diploma online course typically consists of 8 subjects and can be completed over 16 months of part-time study.

Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security at UNSW Online

The 100% online Graduate Diploma in Cyber Security at UNSW is an 8-subject course that allows for both managerial and technical training. The skills you develop in the postgraduate program will help open career opportunities in the field. Subjects in the Management specialisation include cyber operations and cyber laws. The Security Engineering specialisation covers cloud security, penetration testing and digital forensics, among other topics. The program is accelerated, allowing you to finish inside 16 months while working full time.

Smiling man and woman in an office setting

The ultimate cybersecurity education program is a master's degree. In Australia, an online Master of Cyber Security is a 12-subject program. You typically complete this over 24 months of part-time, exam-free study.

In choosing an online course, you should consider the specialisations available. Popular majors are management, cybersecurity analysis and security engineering. You can also study cybersecurity management in MBA or Master of Technology Management programs.

Entry requirements vary depending on the level of technical content contained... READ MORE

Master of Cyber Security Analysis

Man in office looking at computer screen showing charts and analysis

Strong technical analysis, with accompanying security measures, is how you consistently protect a company's network and information assets. You can major in cybersecurity analysis as part of a master's degree in Australia.

Students explore topics such as network security, networking technologies, scripting languages, digital forensics, data visualisation, and incident response.

Graduates come away prepared for any cyber security role but, importantly, are ready to provide day-to-day protection for their employer... READ MORE

Master of Cyber Security Engineering

Coding on laptop in corner office

A major in Security Engineering could really set you up for a lucrative career. According to InfoSec, cybersecurity engineering "utilizes some of the most in-demand information security and IT skills, pays well and is very much a role that many organizations are desperately trying to fill."

In a cybersecurity engineering master's program, expect to spend extra time on topics like penetration testing, cloud security, digital forensics, and reverse engineering.

Graduates are in demand to do jobs such as developing and deploying security systems, penetration testing, and troubleshooting incidents... READ MORE

Master of Cyber Security Management

Two professionals shaking hands in tech room

If you see your role as more manager than technician, consider a masters in cybersecurity management. As well as general topics, students delve into management concerns such as enterprise risk, governance programs for staff, legal and ethical issues, and operations management.

Some technical aptitude is needed for a cybersecurity management masters. But you won't do as many advanced technical subjects compared to other specialisations.

Graduates are typically employed by medium and large organisations to coordinate and manage cybersecurity efforts across teams... READ MORE

Master of Technology Management

Woman pressing electronic chip symbol linking to abstract technology symbols

A Master of Technology Management is a flexible degree. You can study management of cybersecurity along with other technology fields, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, databases and information systems.

To be an effective cybersecurity manager, you need solid technical and managerial knowledge. But you may also benefit from studying complementary and related topics, putting you in a stronger position for executive roles.

The beauty of an MTM and most other masters is that you can start with a graduate certificate to test the program... READ MORE

MBA in Cyber Security

Professional man holding computer tablet with data protection graphic floating above other hand

If you want learn about cyber security but also gain strong management qualifications, consider a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Cyber Security. This is a program with limited technical content.

As will all MBA programs, the emphasis will be on building transferable management and leaderships skills. But with a Cyber Security major, you also learn how to manage business activities where cybersecurity and data protection are vital.

Topics you might cover in a Cybersecurity MBA include risk analysis, threat management, global security issues, big data, digital operations, and leadership in practice... READ MORE

Build a Secure, Lucrative Career

Male executive overlooking glass railing

A cyber security course is a genuinely solid investment. Your education will help build a career in one of the most secure professions. There are claims that, due to unmet demand, the global unemployment rate among cyber security experts has been sitting at zero per cent since 2016.

When you study for a cyber qualification, the issue is not so much of whether you'll get a job but the selection of jobs you'll have to choose from. Talent.com estimates the median salary for cyber security in Australia is $120,360, with entry-level positions providing $100k in remuneration.

This field is one for people who love online learning. The vast majority of professionals have a university degree. And ongoing professional development is a must. One factor that makes the job so interesting is that it's constantly evolving along with technology. The best time to start your learning journey with cyber education is online today.

Phishing

Cyber Security vs Network Security

Network security protects assets from cyber-attacks and data breaches. Cyber security protects all assets, including data on a single device.

FAQs

† Online courses are available in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra, Gold Coast, Newcastle. Australia-wide.