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SEC595: Applied Data Science and AI/Machine Learning for Cybersecurity Professionals

SEC595Cyber Defense, Artificial Intelligence
SEC595: Applied Data Science and AI/Machine Learning for Cybersecurity Professionals
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SANS Cyber Academies: Building the Future Cybersecurity Workforce

A career-building cybersecurity training program designed to help individuals from outside the industry launch their cybersecurity careers. Open to U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents. This is a highly competitive aptitude-based scholarship program. Selection is based on aptitude, and participation must be earned.​

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Steps to Apply

Review the requirements below. If you meet the criteria and can commit to the program, submit your scholarship application.

Confirm You Qualify

You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident authorized to work in the United States. No prior cybersecurity work experience is required. We're looking for candidates seeking to launch or transition into the cybersecurity industry.

Understand the Commitment

The training structure follows a self-paced, OnDemand format spanning 3 months per course with a certification exam. You'll invest approximately 150 hours of study per course. GIAC certification exams are included with each course. The full program completes in approximately 9 months.

Competitive Scholarship Selection

Applications undergo competitive review with limited seats per cohort, so not all applications are selected. Deadlines are strictly enforced. Selection is based on merit and program fit.

What to Expect

The online scholarship application is timed and includes an aptitude assessment designed to evaluate your potential rather than existing cybersecurity knowledge. No studying or preparation is required beforehand. Once you begin the assessment, you must complete it in one sitting.

Career Reboot

Frederick traded late nights behind the bar for a new start in cybersecurity. Hear how SANS Cyber Academy helped him make the leap and find his path forward.

Career Reboot

Why Choose SANS Cyber Academy?

87%

Job placement rate within 12 months.

8,175+

Scholarships awarded globally.

$87,000

Average U.S. graduate salary.

Hands-On Cybersecurity Training

  • Slide 1 of 3

    SEC275: Foundations: Computers, Technology, & Security

    Beginner
    SEC275Cyber Defense
    SEC406: Linux Security for InfoSec Professionals
    • GIAC Foundational Cybersecurity Technologies (GFACT)
    • 38 CPEs / 38 Hours (Self-Paced)
    • Labs: 90 Hands-On Labs

    View course detailsRegister
  • Slide 2 of 3

    SEC401: Security Essentials - Network, Endpoint, and Cloud

    Essentials
    SEC401Cyber Defense
    SEC401: Security Essentials - Network, Endpoint, and Cloud
    • GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)
    • 6 Days (Instructor-Led)
    • 46 CPEs / 46 Hours (Self-Paced)
    • Labs: 20 Hands-On Labs

    View course detailsRegister
  • Slide 3 of 3

    SEC504: Hacker Tools, Techniques, and Incident Handling

    MAJOR UPDATES
    AI SKILLS
    Essentials
    SEC504Offensive Operations
    SEC504: Hacker Tools, Techniques, and Incident Handling
    • GIAC Certified Incident Handler Certification (GCIH)
    • 6 Days (Instructor-Led)
    • 38 CPEs / 38 Hours (Self-Paced)
    • Labs: 44 Hands-On Labs

    View course detailsRegister

Key Dates for the Current Application Cycle

April 21

Application Open Date

May 29

Application Deadline

July 28

Training Start Date

May 2027

Training Completion Date

Hear From Our Graduates

  • Slide 1 of 4
    I landed a job during this time, and I feel like the knowledge I gained helped give me confidence getting started. The inspiration to keep learning more has helped me do great things in my new career.
    Alumni of SANS Cyber Academy
  • Slide 2 of 4
    These courses and certifications helped me in my everyday tasks at my current position. I specifically used ntdsutil on one of my penetration tests within the last few months and it saved the day.
    Alumni of SANS Cyber Academy
  • Slide 3 of 4
    SANS has provided me with much-needed practical skills and training in the area of cybersecurity. This has transformed me into a more valuable security analyst professional.
    Alumni of Cyversity SANS Diversity Academy
  • Slide 4 of 4
    Shortly after completing the GSEC portion, I interviewed with a federal agency for a SYSADMIN role. Both GFACT and GSEC helped reinforce what they were looking for.
    Alumni of SANS Cyber Academy
Slide 1 of 0

We Collaborate With Top Cybersecurity Organizations Dedicated to Hiring Cyber Academy Graduates

Application Windows

May

Summer Application

July

Fall Application

October

Winter Application

January

Spring Application

Frequently Asked Questions

Modeled Partner Academies

These externally run programs are based on the SANS Cyber Academy model, utilizing its proven curriculum and structure to develop cybersecurity professionals. They are highly competitive and sought after by many aspiring cybersecurity professionals.

A Cybersecurity Training Program For WiCyS Members

Applications are reviewed and selected by WiCyS. SANS delivers the training in partnership with WiCyS.

Students in a Classroom
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Mission 43 - Idaho - Veterans Academy

Applications are reviewed and selected by Mission 43. SANS delivers the training in partnership with Mission 43.

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Cyber Workforce Academy Maryland

Applications are reviewed and selected by SANS. This program is supported by the Maryland Department of Labor through the EARN Maryland grant.

Team Working on a Tablet Device
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South Eastern Cyber Workforce Alliance

Applications are reviewed and selected by SANS. This program operates within the NICE RAMPS Community.

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In the News: SANS Cyber Academy

Stay updated with the latest news, media coverage, and announcements about the SANS Cyber Academy.

  • Slide 1 of 4

    Cisco Sponsors SANS Institute Cohort to Close Cybersecurity Skills Gap

    Read More
    CyberAcademy: Cisco
  • Slide 2 of 4

    Cyber Workforce Development: Maryland's Thriving Partnership with SANS Institute Drives Career Growth and Bridges Cyber Skills Gap

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    CyberAcademy: Cyber Workforce Academy Maryland:
  • Slide 3 of 4

    Bridging the Gender Gap in Cybersecurity: SANS Institute and Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) Unveil International Women’s Day Scholarship for Cutting-Edge AI Course

    Read More
    CyberAcademy: WiCyS
  • Slide 4 of 4

    SANS Institute to Triple Academy Scholarships by 2026 as Threats Escalate Across U.S. Infrastructure

    Read More
    CyberAcademy: CSA