The U.S. Cybersecurity Infrastructure and Security Agency (CIxSA) cites more than 570,000 open cybersecurity jobs in the U.S., with open positions increasing by 35% last year. With talent shortages at all levels, opportunities include roles in compliance, risk evaluation, policy, management, policies and procedures, detection and testing, as well as the specialized roles of programmers and software engineers.

In response to this demand, the University of Delaware’s Division of Professional and Continuing Studies (UD PCS) is offering foundational and advanced cybersecurity professional development online courses this spring.

“These courses are particularly designed for those are who are interested in moving into, or are new to the cybersecurity field, and who have very little cybersecurity background or knowledge,” explained Jason Reynolds, cybersecurity expert and lead instructor.

Cybersecurity Fundamentals for Practitioners and Managers takes place April 1-May 15. The self-paced, online class covers important cybersecurity concepts, tools and terminology, and is intended as an introduction to the industry and a steppingstone for further training in the field.

Advanced Cybersecurity Defense takes place Feb. 14-May 15 and is intended for those with some familiarity with the cybersecurity field or who have completed the fundamentals class. It features hands-on practice in the course’s unique and realistic network environment for virtual “capture the flag” activities and hacking challenges.

Also offered through UD PCS are two online exam preparation classes covering the CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) and CompTIA Security+ certification exams.

For details, visit the website.