SANS.edu Alumni Outcomes Report
Alumni of the SANS Technology Institute report rapid promotions, six-figure salaries, and industry respect—plus overwhelming satisfaction with the program’s real-world value.
Careers Transformed. Value Delivered. Impact That Lasts.
The Alumni Outcomes Report is a new initiative launched in 2024 to better understand the long-term value of a SANS education. Through surveys conducted at key career milestones—six months, 2 years, 5 years, and 10 years post-graduation—we’re learning where our alumni go, how they grow, and how they feel about their career journey.
Early findings confirm what we’ve long known: SANS Technology Institute graduates are highly satisfied with their education and achieve impressive career outcomes in cybersecurity.
Success Stories
- Slide 1 of 5
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My SANS certifications have taken me to places I never knew I could reach. They have significantly boosted my career and opened doors to opportunities I didn't think were possible.”
Fritz VillanuevaThreat Hunter, ScotiabankRead Fritz's Story - Slide 2 of 5
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Every course I’ve taken at SANS has been directly relevant to my job. There’s no filler, just practical knowledge that makes an impact.”
Christina WestfallSenior Threat Detection Engineer, AnvilogicRead Christina's Story - Slide 3 of 5
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Having a SANS degree tells employers that you have what it takes to do the job. You have the hands-on experience to get the job done from day one. The SANS name truly opens doors.”
Richard “Rick” Halsell Jr.Principal Security Architect, MicrosoftRead Rick's Story - Slide 4 of 5
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I explored cyber bachelor’s degree programs at a few different universities. SANS’ GIAC certifications really set the program apart. This industry is competitive, and I wanted to ensure that I would have an edge over others when seeking a job.”
Kaela MangerConsultant, JRPC InfoSecRead Kaela's Story - Slide 5 of 5
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All the SANS Technology Institute classes deliver relevant real-world information complemented by hands-on labs. Since earning (three) graduate certifications, I was promoted to Senior Engineering Manager and later advanced to Director of Application Security.”
Jeff SassDirector of Application Security, AdobeRead Jeff's Story
Alumni Preparedness by the Numbers
As the SANS Technology Institute celebrates its 20th anniversary, our first Alumni Outcomes Report highlights how graduates are launching and advancing cybersecurity careers with elite skills and globally recognized credentials.
The Outcomes
Alumni Satisfaction and Career Impact
SANS Technology Institute alumni report high satisfaction with their education and clear, career-shaping outcomes as a result.
- 100% Satisfaction Rate: Every respondent expressed satisfaction with the quality of their SANS education, with over 91% reporting they were very satisfied.
- Career Growth and Advancement: Alumni shared stories of promotions, salary increases, career shifts into specialized fields, and greater confidence during interviews.
- Real-World Skills and Professional Networks: Respondents credited their success to hands-on training, technical expertise, leadership development, and connections with peers and industry leaders.
Why ROI is So High
SANS Technology Institute alumni report high satisfaction with their education and clear, career-shaping outcomes as a result.
- Curriculum led by world-renowned SANS instructors: Students learn from the same experts who train the U.S. government and Fortune 500 companies, bringing unmatched credibility and insight to every course.
- Integration with GIAC certifications: Students earn industry-recognized GIAC credentials as part of their degree or certificate program, boosting career value with every course.
- Employer recognition and demand: Hiring managers know the SANS Technology Institute produces elite talent—making our graduates top candidates for high-paying, mission-critical roles.
- Real-world simulations and applied learning: Students gain hands-on experience solving real cybersecurity challenges, preparing them to contribute from day one on the job.
High Alumni Recommendation Rate Signals Enduring Educational Value
Graduates value the hands-on learning, expert instructors, and career impact of their education.
- By the time of program completion, 95% of alumni agree that their career has advanced as a result of their academic program.
- 99% of undergraduate alumni believe that SANS.edu provided them with the knowledge and skills to begin or advance their career as a cybersecurity professional.
- 97% of master’s alumni believe that SANS.edu provided them with the knowledge and skills needed to take on a leadership role in their organization.
Our Grads Get Hired
Our alumni work for organizations large and small, including Fortune 500 companies, military and government organizations, and leading cybersecurity firms. Here are just a few.
Success in Their Own Words
Explore inspiring stories from SANS Technology Institute graduates who’ve landed top roles, earned respected certifications, and changed their futures through cybersecurity education.
Methodology
The Alumni Outcomes Survey is part of a new initiative launched in May 2024 to better understand the long-term impact of a SANS Technology Institute education. The survey is emailed to graduates at four key milestones: 6 months, 2 years, 5 years, and 10 years post-graduation. Respondents are asked to share feedback on their educational experience, current career status, and how their degree or certificate has influenced their professional development. Each alumni group receives one initial email and up to three automated follow-up reminders to encourage participation.
Response Rates by Cohort:
- 6-month: 20%
- 2-year: 14%
- 5-year: 13%
- 10-year: 29%
Need More Information?
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