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Apply for the Next Cyber Workforce Academy - Maryland
The SANS Cyber Workforce Academy - EARN - MD is comprised of one training pathway, designed to create new careers in the MD cybersecurity market, open to Maryland residents only. The academies provide job seekers with advanced technical training, industry-recognized GIAC certifications, and the in-demand, hands-on cybersecurity skills Maryland employers require.
Cybersecurity Reskilling Pathway
This cybersecurity training pathway is designed specifically for individuals not currently working in the cybersecurity field, and are interested in launching a cybersecurity career. Focused on cybersecurity aptitude, rather than prior experience and knowledge, applicants can be confident in knowing this program will help to construct a robust cybersecurity foundation to grow a new career.
The first course you take will be SEC275 Foundations & GFACT Certification
The second course you will take is SEC401 Security Essentials & GSEC Certification
The third and final course you will take is SEC504 Incident Handling & GCIH Certification
Our Alumni
Brittany Lashley
"The SANS Cyber Immersion provided me with the chance to prove that I am capable. I don’t have a computer science background, but I have a lot of drive and passion for the field. The GIAC exams are the only exams I have enjoyed taking because I knew that the SANS training was providing me with the skills needed to be successful on the exam and in my future career. - Technical Apprentice at The Boeing Company
Moses Thompson
"My SANS Cyber Immersion Academy experience directly impacted my ability and capacity to learn cybersecurity principles, techniques, tools, and standards. Career-wise, my experience played a major role in obtaining my most recent employment opportunity." - Technical Support Officer at Raytheon
Brian Hennessy
"If you're considering a career in cybersecurity, just do it. Jump in and start consuming information. Embrace the imposter syndrome and just know that your ignorance on a topic can be overcome with time and dedication." - Reporting/Compliance/QA Lead at SAIC
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How the Program Works
Interested candidates will follow the application process below, candidates must earn an invitation to progress to each stage of the process. Not all applicants will receive invitations to progress to the next stage.
- Complete a web application form.
- The application will be reviewed and an online assessment sent within three days.
- Complete the online assessment before applications close.
- Assessment results are reviewed once a week.
- Submit supporting documents to complete the application.
- Complete an interview questionnaire.
- All candidates receive notification of acceptance or denial, the notification timeframe is dependent on the volume of applications.
- All applicants lose access to the online assessment at the time of application closing.
You are NOT eligible for either program if you:
- Do not live in or have proof of permanent residency in the state of Maryland
- Have been employed in a direct information security role for 3 or more years outside of your military service
- Are currently pursuing or hold a master's degree or Ph.D. in information security
Time Commitment for Students
The Academy is a fast-track, intensive program, and students are expected to complete all coursework and certifications in up to six months. On average, it takes most SANS Cyber Academy students 100 hours to prepare for one GIAC certification attempt.
Employer Partners
Meet, interview, and potentially hire academy graduates
Non-Profit Partners
Engage in ways ranging from funding and executing their own academy, to helping expand the impact of existing SANS programs with additional resources.
