Home » STEM » Information Technology » Cyber Security » 3 Best Cyber Security Graduate Certificates Online

3 Best Cyber Security Graduate Certificates Online

Qualify for more jobs with a top-rated Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security online.

Smiling young man working diligently at computer

Overview

An online Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security is a postgraduate qualification for those looking to enter the field or upgrade their skills and credentials. Courses are relatively short, consisting of 3-4 subjects and taking 6-8 months of part-time study.

You should typically have an IT or other technical background, although some programs accept graduates from any discipline. Successful completion gives you the option to continue your studies towards a Master of Cyber Security online.

The best online courses allow you to achieve your learning goals while also providing qualifications that employers value. You have the flexibility to choose the right course for you, whether that's general and introductory or a specialised program in an area such as data analytics or network security. These programs are designed for working professionals, with 100% online study and no fixed hours.

Related: What Is a Graduate Certificate in Australia?

Top 3 Online Courses

Each of these Graduate Certificates in Cyber Security offers a high-quality online learning experience and significant career payoffs. The courses are all accelerated, meaning you can study throughout the year, completing subjects in sequence one at a time. They have each been designed with strong industry consultation to provide you with the tools to make an immediate impact.

UNSW Online

The Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security from UNSW Online provides an essential foundation in critical cybersecurity areas. The program consists of four 7-week modules, covering the topics of cyber security foundations, data security and privacy, cyber security ethics, and security engineering principles. Designed for working professionals, you can study flexibly in your spare time while working full-time. This foundation course is also a part of UNSW Online's Master of Cyber Security. Graduates benefit from UNSW's excellent reputation in Engineering and Technology.

Edith Cowan University

ECU offers a 3-subject Graduate Certificate of Cyber Security that you can finish in just 6 months of part-time study. The online course leads on to a masters degree with Technical Analysis and Governance specialisations. Essential cyber subjects that make up this course are Cyber Security, Networking Technologies, and Network Security. Students benefit from joining one of Australia's largest cyber education programs, with strong industry links and cutting-edge expertise. The course is open to university graduates (any degree) and to professionals with relevant experience.

UTS Online

The UTS Online Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Management is designed for aspiring tech professionals who want to build on their knowledge of new technologies. The course is open to, among others, professionals with a relevant undergraduate degree and minimal IT experience who are interested in moving into tech organisations. You will learn the foundations of cybersecurity management, including identifying vulnerabilities using data analytics, and developing ethical approaches to mitigate cybersecurity threats and breaches. Delivered part-time and 100% online, this course enables you to gain in-demand cybersecurity skills you can immediately apply to your career.

Is a Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate Worth It?

People sitting at desks in office with large computer screens

A cyber security graduate certificate is worthwhile because of the high salary benefits and limited investment required. We highly rate this course due to its relatively short length and the tremendous opportunities available in the industry. The career value is also enduring because graduates receive a well-recognised university qualification, considered equivalent to a degree.

Your ability to earn always depends on professional experience and overall level of skill development. But having a relevant postgraduate qualification can only help. Just a slight increase in annual income will, over time, translate into a high return on investment (ROI). This is especially true considering that online courses allow you to study without having to travel or take time off work.

Career opportunities in cyber security in Australia are fantastic. On average, a cyber security professional earns about $126,604 annually. Entry roles start at $105,242, and seasoned professionals can earn up to $172,898. In-demand roles include cyber security analyst, network security engineer, penetration tester, and cybersecurity consultant. You can capitalise on these opportunities by adding a cybersecurity graduate certificate to your resume.

Related: Are Graduate Certificates Worth It in Australia?

What Can You Do With This Qualification?

Professional man inspecting charts and codes on computer

— with Dr Andrew Lancaster, Unicurve

Dr Andrew Lancaster shared insights on the value of a cyber security graduate certificate based on occupational analysis. "To break into cyber security or pivot within the field, you need a mix of education, skill development, and hands-on experience," he stated. A graduate certificate ticks the boxes for education and, to some extent, skill development. Additionally, it can introduce students to valuable networking opportunities.

Andrew Lancaster, cybersecurity job analystHowever, Dr Lancaster expressed concern for those just beginning their journey. "Entry-level roles in cyber security can be hard to find. Employers typically seek individuals ready to set up and maintain defence systems from the outset. Opportunities for complete beginners can be limited."

Highlighting the industry's varied nature, Lancaster suggested having a clear career direction is vital. Cyber security encompasses multiple niches, and employers often seek candidates who perfectly match each role's requirements. "Decide on a preferred job role to target and direct your preparation, including courses, certificates, informal training, and projects, towards that," he advised.

Can you get a job with a cybersecurity postgraduate certificate? "It's undoubtedly beneficial," Dr Lancaster remarked. He added, "Like many IT roles, while a university education is viewed positively, employers also focus on the practical skills of the candidate. Complement your education with demonstrated experience and continuous learning and you should be nicely positioned."

Career Opportunities

Candidates lined up in row of seats holding job and career signs

Job prospects for trained cyber security professionals are excellent as demand continues to outstrip supply. The kinds of roles you can potentially succeed in are many and varied. Job titles include the following.

  1. business continuity engineer
  2. cryptoanalyst
  3. cryptographer
  4. cybersecurity analyst
  5. cybersecurity consultant
  6. cybersecurity officer
  7. cybersecurity systems architect
  8. forensic computer analyst
  1. forensic computer scientist
  2. information security analyst
  3. information security auditor
  4. information security manager
  5. information security officer
  6. IT security consultant
  7. IT security engineer
  8. IT security engineer
  1. penetration tester
  2. security analyst
  3. security architect
  4. security consultant
  5. security system developer
  6. security system manager
  7. security system programmer
  8. security systems administrator

What You'll Study (Course Structure)

Tech professional working on laptop in computer lab

Cybersecurity short courses tend to be specialised, so learning outcomes depend on the program chosen. Here are example subjects lists.

UNSW Online

  • Cyber Security Ethics
  • Data Security and Privacy
  • Foundations of Cyber Security
  • Principles of Security Engineering

UTS Online

  • Cybersecurity Management
  • Cybersecurity Analytics and Insights
  • Data Ethics and Regulation
  • Data Visualisation & Visual Analytics

Edith Cowan University

  • Cyber Security
  • Networking Technologies
  • Scripting Languages

Entry Requirements

Male and female work colleagues working together in office on laptop

Entry requirements vary. You can access most programs if you have an IT (or related) degree OR significant professional experience in cyber security or a related field. A bachelor degree in any discipline will suffice for some courses.

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