Certificate in Cyber Security Fundamentals

What is this program about?

The Certificate in Cyber Security Fundamentals helps you understand the modern threat landscape and build the skills needed to protect systems, data, and networks.

Whether you’re transitioning into cyber security or adding technical expertise to your current role, this foundational program provides the knowledge needed to navigate risk, compliance, and security operations with confidence.

Students who want to continue their learning can seamlessly progress into the Advanced Cyber Security Certificate, gaining deeper expertise in secure design principles, cryptography, cyber security operations management, incident response, disaster recovery, and security assessment and testing.

By completing both certificates, you’ll build a portfolio of real-world projects and gain comprehensive preparation aligned with CISSP domains.

What will I learn in this program?

You’ll develop knowledge across key areas of cyber security, including:

• Security principles and frameworks aligned with the eight CISSP domains
• Governance, risk management, compliance, and security policy design
• Data protection, encryption, and identity management
• Foundational practices for securing systems, data, and infrastructure

What makes this program unique?

This is one of the few part-time programs in Canada that aligns directly with the CISSP body of knowledge while remaining accessible to professionals from a variety of backgrounds.

You’ll learn from practicing cyber security professionals, gain hands-on experience solving real-world challenges, and graduate with practical skills you can immediately apply or build upon in the Advanced Cyber Security Certificate.

Why should I choose this program?

The demand for cyber security professionals continues to grow across every industry. This certificate offers an accessible way to build technical literacy, strengthen your professional credibility, and become a more strategic contributor at work without needing a computer science degree or extensive technical experience.

Students also have the option to continue into the Advanced Cyber Security Certificate and earn two complementary credentials in less than a year.

Who should take this program?

The program is suited to IT and technology professionals looking to specialize in cyber security, recent technology graduates, and managers or consultants taking on security responsibilities. It also supports internationally educated IT professionals seeking specialized knowledge and a Canadian university credential.

• IT professionals looking to specialize in cyber security
• Project managers, consultants, and team leads who need cyber security knowledge
• Recent technology graduates seeking a cyber security specialization
• Career changers from industries such as finance, healthcare, and law
• Professionals preparing for CISSP certification or advanced cyber security training

Is this a beginner-friendly program, or do I need a background in the field?

The program is designed for professionals with an IT background. You’ll start with foundational concepts and gradually develop technical and leadership competencies throughout the program.

All registered students also receive a complimentary cyber security preparation course.

Are live classes required?

Yes. This Blended (Online) program includes scheduled live online classes alongside self-paced learning activities. Attendance in live sessions is required.

What is the weekly time commitment?

Part-time format (5 months): Most students spend approximately 6 to 10 hours per week on coursework.

Intensive format (11 weeks): Students should expect approximately 10 to 12 hours per week, including six hours of live instruction plus additional time for readings, assignments, and project work.

Can I work full-time while taking this program?

Absolutely. Most students work full-time while enrolled. The program is designed to help you upskill while balancing professional and personal commitments.

Can I finish the program early or take extra time?

No. Students move through the program as part of a cohort and follow a structured schedule designed to support collaborative learning and instructor feedback.

How long is the program overall?

The Certificate in Cyber Security Fundamentals can be completed in just five months.

Students who continue into the Advanced Cyber Security Certificate can complete both programs in approximately ten months.

Can I enrol after the program starts?

No. Students must be registered before the start date. If you miss an intake, you can register for the next available offering.

How many intakes are offered each year?

The program offers Winter and Fall intakes.

Are there additional costs beyond tuition?

Aside from a required textbook costing approximately $100 CAD, there are no additional mandatory fees.

What is the registration deadline?

You can register at any time before the program start date, provided space is available. Early registration is recommended.

Is this program offered online, on campus, or in a hybrid format?

This program is delivered in a Blended (Online) format, combining scheduled live online classes with flexible self-paced online learning.

Students complete coursework on their own schedule while attending live virtual classes that provide opportunities for interaction with instructors and classmates.

Do I need to log in at specific times?

Yes. Attendance in scheduled live online classes is required. Outside of those sessions, coursework can be completed independently according to the program schedule.

What kind of technology or software do I need?

Students will need:

• A reliable internet connection
• A laptop or desktop computer
• A webcam and microphone

Please review the program’s minimum technical requirements before registering.

The certificate includes three courses:

• Introduction to Cyber Security: Explore information security principles and the eight CISSP domains.
• Security Risk Management and Governance: Examine ethical, legal and regulatory considerations, network fundamentals, and security policy design.
• Data, Asset and Identity Protection: Learn how to protect information through data collection, classification, storage and retention, alongside authentication and identity protection.

What kinds of assignments should I expect?

Students complete case studies, problem-solving exercises, and applied projects based on real-world cyber security scenarios.

Are there exams or final projects?

Yes. Some courses include traditional exams in addition to other assessment activities.

How is the program graded?

Evaluation may include assignments, participation in live sessions, project work, and other course-specific assessments.

What happens if I miss a class?

If you need to miss a class, notify your instructor. Recorded sessions can help you catch up on missed material.

Will this lead to a job?

Cyber security continues to be one of Canada’s fastest-growing fields. With strong demand for skilled professionals, this program helps prepare learners for a variety of cyber security career opportunities.

What job opportunities are available after completing this program?

Graduates may pursue roles such as:

• IT support specialists
• Junior network security administrator
• Junior SOC analyst
• Junior IT Risk
• Security Compliance or GRC Support
• IT Analyst with Security Responsibilities

Does this program offer a co-op or internship?

The Program does not include a formal co-op, students can gain practical experience through work-integrated learning opportunities.

Is there a capstone or hands-on project?

While there is no formal capstone project, students complete practical assignments that reflect real-world cyber security challenges.

Those who continue into the Advanced Cyber Security Certificate will also complete more advanced projects involving vulnerability assessments, security policies, and incident response planning.

Will I have a portfolio to show employers?

Yes. Throughout the certificate, you’ll develop a portfolio of applied projects, which may include security assessments, compliance frameworks, and vulnerability reports that can be shared with prospective employers.

Does the program count toward a professional designation or certification?

The curriculum is aligned with CISSP domains and provides strong preparation for the CISSP exam; however, the certificate itself does not grant CISSP certification.

Does the program cover artificial intelligence?

Yes. Focused discussions explore artificial intelligence as an emerging technology reshaping cyber security practices and threats.

Will I gain practical cyber security experience?

Yes. Students tackle real-world case studies and Capture-the-Flag exercises designed to build practical, job-ready skills. These activities help you apply cyber security concepts through problem-solving and security challenges.

Will I be able to interact with instructors?

Yes. Instructors are experienced industry professionals who provide guidance, answer questions, and offer feedback throughout the program.

Can I get support if I fall behind?

Absolutely. Instructors, program staff, and Student Services are available to help you stay on track and succeed.

Is academic or technical support available?

Yes. Students have access to both academic and technical support throughout the program.

How big are the classes?

Class sizes are intentionally kept small, typically ranging from 15 to 30 students, to support meaningful interaction and personalized feedback.

Is peer-to-peer interaction encouraged?

Yes. Students join a cohort of like-minded professionals and progress through the program together. Many graduates continue to benefit from the professional connections they build during their studies.