Frequently Asked Questions

Students learning with Instructor

 

Q: Is this certificate program worth any college credit?

A: No this is a non-credit workforce development certificate program, no college credit is awarded in any of the CIS or CSE degree programs at UofL.


Q: Can I apply now?

A:Yes, applications are available and free to complete.


Q: Do I have to enroll at UofL?

A: No, you do not have to be enrolled as a UofL student.


Q: How much does this program cost?

A: The cost of the entire certificate program is $1500. Specialized bundles have varying prices.


Q: Are scholarships available? 

A: Not currently.


Q: Is the program fully online?

A: Yes, the Cybersecurity Workforce Program is offered 100% online.


Q: Is this an undergraduate certificate or a graduate certificate?

A:  Neither. This is a workforce development certificate. Coalition schools are determining and evaluating how much credit can be accepted towards a pathway degree at one of the coalition schools.


Q:  What documents do I have to submit to get into the program?

A:  Students will need to submit an official application along with two references and a resume showing 4 more years of work experience. 


Q: I don't live near Louisville, can I still do this program?

A: Yes, the program is offered 100% online


Q: I have learning disabilities, will there be accommodations?

A: Yes, the modules are being created within ADA guidelines to support students who require that type of accommodation.


Q: I don't have access to internet, is there an alternative?

A:  Due to the variety of expertise required for this content, this is completely online. There are no plans to create a version that is face to face due to the geographical separation of the curriculum developers who will also be the instructors for the pilot cohort.


 

Q: What badges do I get?

A: Each level of the program has its own badge, and if all three levels are completed, a full-program badge is awarded. Additionally, specialized bundles have associated badges that will be awarded upon completion. There are micro-credentials in our program offered by industry partners, and those entities will award their own badges on a case by case basis.


Q: Are those badges given by UofL?

A: The final badge will be given by UofL via a third party badging platform, for certificate completion; the micro badges are issued by the proprietary owners such as IBM, Google, Microsoft, etc...


Q: What happens if I fall sick during the program and am unable to complete it? Can I take it again?

A: Since this is a pilot program there are limited opportunities to recycle. However, we will attempt to accommodate your needs as best as possible.


Q: I am retired. Can I still apply?

A: Yes. Our pilot cohort targeted First Responders, Transitioning Military, and Veterans. As of 2023 our program is open to all.


Q: Will I be a student at UofL?

A: Yes and No; Yes you will be a student in our workforce/professional development program, this certificate is not directly for semester hour credit. No, you will not be considered a traditional student in a degree seeking status.


QWhat can I do after getting this certificate?

A:  As a workforce development program the curriculum is designed to introduce or enhance just a few of the competencies needed to work in the cybersecurity industry. As such, you will be able to show prospective employers some of the knowledge, skills and abilities that you possess as result of successful completion of this certificate. You will have to pursue a degree in one of the pathways to become an expert who specializes in this part if the IT or CIS industry.


QWill I get a job right after completing this program?

A:  The certificate does not guarantee or place you with an employment opportunity upon completion.


Q: Will UofL help me get industry contacts for getting hired?

A: Not directly, your peer group in your cohort may be composed of other industry contacts that you can connect with.


Q: I am currently a student in this program at UofL. Will I be able to apply to the other partner schools to complete a degree seeking pathway in cybersecurity?

A: Yes, you will be able to apply to other schools within this coalition to complete a pathway within cybersecurity.

Grant award number: NCAE-C Grant Number: H98230-20-1-0347 **This is a non-credit workforce professional development certificate

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