About This Program
Cybercrime is a major national security threat, with hackers using increasingly advanced tactics to steal data and extort millions from governments and businesses. Effective responses require fast action, strong investigative skills and sound risk judgement. Organizations increasingly seek professionals who can protect their systems from growing attacks.
In this three-course certificate program, you’ll gain a real-world perspective on cybersecurity by learning how professionals apply tools, frameworks and strategic thinking. You’ll evaluate costs and benefits of different security approaches, counteract cyberattack simulations and connect with mentors from the United Nations, U.S. Department of Justice, National Security Agency, FBI and CIA. Expanding on the UW Certificate in Cybersecurity, this program emphasizes governance, strategy and risk interpretation — preparing you for emerging fields like AI systems oversight.
▸ Related Article: How to Become a Cybersecurity Professional
Designed For
Anyone interested in entering or advancing in the field of cybersecurity risk management.
▸ Explore More: Want technical training in cybersecurity? Take a look at the Certificate in Cybersecurity — or find the right cybsecurity program for you.
What You’ll Learn
How to create and implement security and incident response plans so you’re prepared for a breach
New frameworks for cyber-risk legal issues such as forensic readiness and Internet of Things
Solutions to social technical problems using an Atlas of Risk Maps
How to use the National Initiative Cybersecurity Education workforce framework to assess your professional interests and map them to a career in cybersecurity
How to respond under pressure during real-time attacks with triage
Get Hands-On Experience
Write and critique cybersecurity policies, which you can reference in future jobs
Practice hacking sites, conducting forensic investigations, anticipating upcoming attacks and profiling internal threats
Use cybersecurity software from EC-Council
Engage in international discussions with other students and field faculty
Earn Center for National Security Studies Certification
In addition to your UW certificate, upon completion of this program, you’ll also earn Center for National Security Studies Certification through the UW Center for Information Assurance & Cybersecurity. CIAC is designated by the National Security Agency as a Center for Academic Excellence in Research and in Cyber Defense Education.
Prepare for EC-Council Certifications
This program also helps you prepare to earn certifications from EC-Council in Network Defense Essentials, Ethical Hacking Essentials and Digital Forensics Essentials.



Career Stats
89%
Alumni working in field
Sample Employers
T-Mobile, Microsoft, Boeing, Uber, AT&T, various federal and state government agencies
44.6%
Projected job growth for information security analysts in Washington state (2024-2034)
$142,938
Median salary for information security analysts in Washington state (2023)
Career-Ready Credentials
When you complete this program, you’ll earn a certificate and a digital achievement badge you can use to showcase your professional development. You’ll also earn achievement badges for each course you complete.
Our Enrollment Coaches Are Here to Help
Connect with an enrollment coach to learn more about this offering. Or if you need help finding the right certificate, specialization or course for you, reach out to explore your options.