Taking Single Cybersecurity Courses at SANS.edu
Test drive the SANS Technology Institute experience by taking up to 2 courses without being enrolled in a certificate or degree program.
Start with a Course, Advance to a Cybersecurity Certificate or Degree
Build in-demand cybersecurity skills, experience our hands-on approach, and earn a respected GIAC certification in a focused three-month term.
Earn Credit for Future Programs Successfully completed single courses can can be applied to a SANS.edu certificate or degree program when you're ready to take your next step.
Advancing in Cyber: Real Stories from SANS.edu Graduates
Jeremiah Hainly earned four promotions at his company after completing his SANS.edu degree. See why he thinks starting with a single course is a great way to explore the college before applying.
Single Course Admissions Timeline
Apply by the 13th of any month.
Receive a decision on the 15th of the same month.
Start courses as soon as one month after admission.
Enrolling in a Single Course
To enroll in a course as a non-degree student, students must meet the requirements for English language proficiency and complete the following steps:
Step 1: Choose Your Course
Pick a course from our single course guide. Your tuition includes the cost of the course, textbooks, and your GIAC certification test.
Step 2: Apply
Submit your completed application through our online portal by the 13th of any month to receive a decision on the 15th of the same month.
Step 3: Accept and Confirm
After you receive an admission decision by email, confirm your intention to enroll.
Step 4: Complete New Student Orientation (NSO)
You'll meet with your student advisor within 2 weeks of admission to finalize your course choice and review steps for registration and payment.
Step 5: Register and Pay
Pay by using the unique link emailed to you by your student advisor. Registering through any other link will result in a different course price.
Step 6: Earn Credit Towards a SANS.edu Program
Complete your course and talk to your advisor about transferring your credits to a SANS.edu degree or certificate program.
A Step-by-Step Video Guide to Single-Course Enrollment
Not ready to commit to a full program?
This video explains how you can take a single SANS.edu course, earn credit and a GIAC certification, and explore what it’s like to learn at the top college for cybersecurity.
- Slide 1 of 4
SANS.edu Named One of the Top 10 Innovators in Cybersecurity Education
The SANS Technology Institute has been recognized as a global leader in cybersecurity education by Help Net Security, joining the ranks of top institutions like Stanford, MIT, Carnegie Mellon and Oxford.
- Slide 2 of 4
SANS.edu Is Designated as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the NSA
“The CAE-CD designation is a testament to the quality of our cybersecurity faculty and programs. Our graduates are helping to meet the urgent cybersecurity needs of the U.S. government, industry, academia, and research, and we are proud to be part of a select group of cyber programs to have received this important designation.”
- Ed Skoudis, SANS Technology Institute President
- Slide 3 of 4
SANS.edu Programs are DoD 8140 Approved
If you're a Department of Defense (DoD) employee or contractor who wants to earn a career-focused cybersecurity degree or certificate, our DoD 8140-approved programs provide a pathway aligned with workforce requirements.
DoD 8140 establishes baseline standards for qualifications that directly support operational needs and workforce readiness. All DoD personnel assigned to positions requiring the performance of cyberspace work are affected by DoD 8140.
- Slide 4 of 4
SANS.edu Sentinels Excel at Fall 2025 NCL Competition
Competing against more than 7,800 students and 1,200 teams across the US, the SANS.edu Sentinels delivered another standout performance, confirming their reputation as leaders in collegiate cybersecurity.
Highlights include earning the #1 Power Ranking and fielding the #1, #2, and #4 individual players in the Experienced Student bracket.
Need More Information?
We’re happy to help. Join us for a free info session or request more information today.