Cybersecurity Bootcamps in Denver Guide
If you’re looking for a career where you can make a real impact in your organization and community, cybersecurity may be the right field for you! As a cybersecurity professional, you’ll play an integral role in protecting the sensitive and confidential information of organizations and individuals, ensuring the data doesn’t fall into the hands of online criminals.
In Denver, cybersecurity professionals are in high demand. With over 10,000 job openings available, there are only enough skilled professionals to fill just 68% of those roles, according to CyberSeek. So, how can you take advantage of the cybersecurity opportunities in Denver? In this guide, you’ll explore how cybersecurity bootcamps in Denver can help you develop the highly sought-after skills needed to fight cybercrime and take a deep dive into the city’s tech landscape.
Guide to Cybersecurity Bootcamps in Denver
According to the World Economic Forum, cybercrime is one of the most severe global risks over the next decade. Not only can cybercrime harm the reputation of an organization, it can be costly. Cybersecurity Ventures predicts cybercrime will cost the world $10.5 trillion by 2025, making it imperative for businesses to hire skilled cybersecurity professionals to minimize the potential impact of a cyberattack.
From traditional degree programs to online courses, there are many cybersecurity programs in Denver to choose from. However, if you’re looking for a hands-on learning experience that will allow you to launch your cybersecurity career in a matter of months, not years, then a cybersecurity bootcamp in Denver is the right choice for you.
What is a Cybersecurity Bootcamp?
Cybersecurity is critical to protecting our digital world, but how can you gain the skills to thrive in this fast-growing field? One popular option is enrolling in a cybersecurity bootcamp in Denver. Compared to traditional education, cybersecurity bootcamps offer an accelerated path to developing the highly sought-after skills needed to protect individuals and organizations from becoming victims of cyberattacks. These intensive, short-term cybersecurity programs last months, not years, putting you on the fast-track to a new career.
Remember, cybersecurity bootcamps are fast-paced and aren’t ideal for everyone. To help you decide whether a cybersecurity bootcamp in Denver is right for you, consider these factors:
Do you have a genuine interest in cybersecurity? Is it just the potential career path or are you curious about the field itself?
Are you comfortable with technical concepts and problem-solving? Bootcamps are intensive and require solid foundational knowledge.
Are you a self-motivated and disciplined learner? You'll need to manage your time effectively and dedicate substantial effort to succeed.
What are your career goals? Do you need an entry-level cybersecurity position or need more specialized skills? Many bootcamps typically focus on the basics for beginners.
Can you commit to the time and financial investment? Bootcamps are often intensive and expensive, requiring significant dedication.
What is your current job situation? Can you leave your job or balance work and studies? Consider flexibility and potential career breaks.
Do you have prior IT or security experience? Some bootcamps require basic knowledge, while others cater to complete beginners.
If you’ve decided a cybersecurity bootcamp in Denver is right for you, let’s explore the benefits of this accelerated learning path.
Why Choose a Cybersecurity Bootcamp?
So, why choose a cybersecurity bootcamp over another program? While cybersecurity bootcamps aren’t for everyone, they offer several distinct advantages compared to other cybersecurity programs in Denver, including:
Faster Entry into the Workforce: Compared to years in college, bootcamps typically last 3-6 months, getting you job-ready significantly quicker. This translates to earlier career starts and faster earning potential.
Focused Curriculum: Tailored towards in-demand industry skills, bootcamps provide targeted instruction relevant to real-world cybersecurity jobs. You'll avoid unnecessary general education courses and focus solely on relevant skills employers seek.
Hands-on Learning: Bootcamps emphasize practical experience through projects and labs. You'll gain practical skills to apply directly in your future career, not just theoretical knowledge.
Career Support: Many bootcamps offer career services like resume writing workshops, interview prep, and job placement assistance. This increases your chances of landing a job after graduation.
Flexibility: Bootcamps often offer flexible schedules, including part-time and online options. This allows you to balance your studies with existing commitments like work or family.
Cost-Effectiveness: While not always cheaper than traditional degrees, bootcamps can be more cost-effective in terms of time and tuition invested. Consider the total cost-benefit based on your circumstances.
Typical Cybersecurity Salaries in Denver
Not only does the rapidly growing field of cybersecurity make for a fulfilling career, but it also pays well. According to CompTIA’s State of the Tech Workforce report, Denver boasts median tech salaries that are 112% higher than the national average. However, it’s important to note that your actual salary will ultimately depend on location, company size, job title, and years of experience. To help you get a better idea of your earning potential, let’s explore several typical cybersecurity salaries in Denver.
According to Glassdoor, here are the average Denver salaries for several popular cybersecurity roles:
Cybersecurity Analyst: $95,895
Network Administrator: $87,998
Network Engineer: $100,510
As you gain more experience in the field, your earning potential will increase. Here are the average salaries based on years of experience, according to Glassdoor:
1. Cybersecurity Analyst:
Entry-level (0-1 years): $72,636
Mid-level (7-9 years): $94,645
Experienced (15+ years): $113,250
2. Network Administrator:
Entry-level: $67,268
Mid-level: $77,506
Experienced: $92,828
3. Network Engineer:
Entry-level: $80,351
Mid-level: $91,975
Experienced: $113,700
Earning cybersecurity certifications from industry-recognized organizations like CompTIA can also increase your salary potential. While certifications likely won’t be required to get your first role, they can enhance your resume and help demonstrate your abilities. Here are some of the popular cybersecurity certifications to consider earning:
CompTIA Security+
Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
Types of Cybersecurity Programs in Denver
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to cybersecurity bootcamps in Denver. The Mile High City offers various cybersecurity bootcamps, but how do you know which one is right for you? Here are a few key differentiating factors between bootcamps:
1. Full-Time Immersion:
Intensive schedule: Packaged into 3-6 months, these programs dedicate your full time to focused learning.
Rapid career launch: Ideal for career changers or recent graduates seeking a quick entry into the cybersecurity workforce.
2. Part-Time Flexibility:
Juggle commitments: Designed for individuals with work or family responsibilities, these programs spread the curriculum over evenings or weekends.
Extended learning journey: Typically lasting 6-12 months, they offer a slower pace while maintaining comprehensive training.
3. Online Convenience:
Location independence: Study from anywhere with an internet connection, offering geographic flexibility.
Asynchronous learning: Access pre-recorded lectures and materials at your own pace, suitable for self-directed learners.
Live interaction: Some programs incorporate live online sessions with instructors and classmates for real-time engagement.
4. Hybrid Blended Learning:
Combines formats: Blend online learning with in-person workshops, bootcamps, or labs for practical application.
Social interaction: In-person components enable networking and collaboration with classmates and instructors.
5. Specialty Focus:
Cater to specific areas: Dive into specialized topics like ethical hacking, cloud security, or incident response.
Advanced skill development: Ideal for individuals with some cybersecurity background seeking career specialization.
Fullstack Academy Cybersecurity Bootcamps
Built on active learning principles, the Fullstack Academy Cybersecurity Bootcamp will provide you with the hands-on experience to succeed in several high-demand entry-level roles and prepare for industry-recognized certifications. Through labs, group assignments, and career simulations, you’ll gain experience in:
Asset and Inventory Management
Network Systems
Programming with Python
Systems Administration
Red Team (Offense)
Blue Team (Defense)
The Fullstack Academy Cybersecurity Bootcamp is offered 100% online in both full-time and part-time formats. The full-time Fullstack Academy Cybersecurity Bootcamp is 12 weeks long, with classes held Monday through Friday. The part-time program is 26 weeks in duration, with classes held three days a week.
During bootcamp, you’ll also work closely with a Career Success Coach to optimize your resume, prepare for interviews, and gain insight into what to expect during your job search.
University Cybersecurity Bootcamps Powered by Fullstack Academy
Fullstack Academy partners with top-tier educational institutions to provide students across the country with a high-quality cybersecurity education. These accelerated programs empower students to launch their cybersecurity careers quickly.
The Colorado State University Professional Education Cyber Bootcamp powered by Fullstack Academy combines the university’s commitment to quality education with Fullstack Academy’s active learning method to give aspiring cyber professionals the training they deserve. Throughout bootcamp, students will gain insight into what a career in cybersecurity could look like and develop real-world, hands-on experience in as few as 12 weeks.
Top Employers Hiring in Denver
From established companies like Fidelity Investments and Comcast to innovative start-ups, Denver is home to companies of all industries and sizes. Luckily, they’re all in need of talented cybersecurity professionals to protect their confidential information. For a deeper look at Denver’s cybersecurity landscape, here are the top employers hiring in Denver:
Lumen: As a global communications service provider, Lumen seeks cybersecurity professionals to provide expertise for their solutions and protect the company’s private data.
Bank of America: One of the nation’s most trusted financial institutions, Bank of America hires cybersecurity professionals to protect their customer’s personal information.
Dish Network: A television and mobile phone service provider, Dish Network needs competent cybersecurity experts to safeguard the company’s networks.
Cybersecurity Events in Denver
Cybersecurity is a rapidly evolving field, which means you need to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies, trends, and best practices to be successful. Attending industry events is a great way to keep up with what’s happening in the industry while also making valuable connections with other industry professionals. Here are several popular cybersecurity events in Denver to help you thrive in the industry:
Events and Groups
Fullstack Academy Events: These free, online events cover a wide range of career development topics to help you land your first cybersecurity role and launch your career with confidence.
Denver Cybersecurity Conference: Designed to provide insight into the evolving cybersecurity landscape, the conference features engaging discussions that cover the latest topics and trends in cybersecurity.
Denver Cybersecurity Summit: The annual conference connects C-Suite and Senior Executives who are responsible for cybersecurity and helps them gain insight into the industry through interactive panels and discussions.
Meetups
Denver Cloud Security Alliance: Part of the Colorado chapter of the Cloud Security Alliance, this group holds in-person meetups, an annual fall summit, and other events throughout the year to help provide educational and networking opportunities.
Denver Cyber Security for Control Systems: Dedicated to cybersecurity professionals who are responsible for automated processes and control systems, this meetup helps connect professionals in the Denver area to exchange knowledge and information.
Apt 303 - Denver Cybersecurity: A relaxed, laid-back meetup that allows cybersecurity professionals to connect and share work stories with others who understand the challenges they face on a daily basis.
Cybersecurity Bootcamp FAQs
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Cybersecurity bootcamps offer an excellent opportunity to break into the industry or advance an existing tech career. Students can expect to:
Gain hands-on experience with the latest cybersecurity tools and software
Learn fundamental knowledge from industry-experienced instructors
Acquire critical skills to earn in-demand industry certifications
Receive career support and job search assistance
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The typical salary for cybersecurity roles in Denver can fluctuate depending on various factors, including experience, certifications, location, and job title. Below are average salaries for common entry-level cyber positions in the U.S., according to ZipRecruiter:
Computer Support Specialist: $53,907
Systems Specialist: $61,257
IT Support Specialist: $63,256
Network Specialist: $77,761
Information Security Analyst: $90,092
Cybersecurity Analyst: $96,010
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Cybersecurity bootcamps typically last several weeks to a few months. Some bootcamps follow a strict schedule with live classes, while others may offer a self-paced option.
The Fullstack Academy Cybersecurity Bootcamp offers two program durations: 12 weeks full-time or 26 weeks part-time. All classes are held live online to facilitate an immersive, active learning approach.
Recommended Readings
Cybersecurity Job Demand: The Growing Need for Cyber Professionals
How to Become a Cybersecurity Analyst
Information Security Analyst: Skills, Outlook, and Salary
The Role of AI in Cybersecurity: The Continuing Need for Cyber Professionals
How to Turn Soft Skills Into a Cybersecurity Job
