TL;DR
In the crowded world of cybersecurity, you’ve got everything from big-name certs like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH, and so on, to smaller training badges you collect from online platforms. So maybe you just finished a Cybrary course—do employers actually care about a Cybrary Certificate? Let’s break down the role it can play and how you can leverage it in your career, whether you’re brand-new to the field or already have a few certifications under your belt.
What Exactly Is a Cybrary Certificate?
When you enroll in a Cybrary course, you typically watch video lessons, engage in quizzes or labs, and possibly pass a final assessment. If you check off all the requirements, you get a “Certificate of Completion.” It’s not an official, accredited certification like something you’d get from CompTIA or (ISC)², but it does show you completed the course material.
Employer Perspectives
- Proof of Initiative: Employers like seeing that you’re actively learning. It tells them you’re not just clocking in and out—you’re pushing yourself to pick up new skills.
- Foundation of Knowledge: If the course covered a certain topic—say, network defense or threat intelligence—your certificate indicates you’ve at least got the basics down.
- Supplement to Other Certs: Let’s say you already have your Security+ or you’re aiming for something like OSCP. A Cybrary Certificate can fill in gaps or demonstrate that you studied deeper into certain areas.
Advantages of Earning One
- Accessibility: Cybrary’s courses are online and can be self-paced, so you can learn whenever you want.
- Relevant Topics: Because they focus on cybersecurity, the content often tracks hot trends and pressing issues in the industry. You might find classes on threat hunting, SOC analysis, or cloud security that keep you current.
- Community and Networking: Cybrary has a user community that you can tap into for advice, job leads, or study partners.
- Commitment to Growth: Even if the certificate isn’t as widely recognized as, say, CISSP, it shows you’re dedicated to ongoing learning.
Are They Enough on Their Own?
Probably not. If you’re gunning for a serious cybersecurity role, especially a mid-level or senior position, most hiring managers look for industry-standard certifications like Security+, CISSP, OSCP, etc. However, a Cybrary Certificate can help you stand out from candidates who have zero extracurricular training. It says, “Hey, I’m really interested in this topic, and I’ve gone the extra mile to learn it.”
Tips for Showcasing It
- LinkedIn: Under “Licenses & Certifications,” list the name of the course, plus a short blurb about the skills covered.
- Résumé Section: Have a “Professional Development” or “Continuing Education” section where you can put these certificates in.
- Talk About It in Interviews: Mention relevant labs, projects, or final assignments you did. Don’t just name-drop the certificate—explain what you actually learned or how it’s applicable to the job you want.
- Pair It with Hands-On Work: If you can, build a small portfolio or blog about what you practiced. That real-world application will speak volumes.
Bottom Line
A Cybrary Certificate is definitely not on the same tier as widely recognized certifications that are globally accepted by HR departments. But it does highlight your self-motivation, your willingness to continue growing, and your specific interest in cybersecurity topics. In an industry that’s constantly changing, showing you’re staying up to date is never a bad thing. If you’re brand-new, it could help you get your foot in the door. If you’re more seasoned, it proves you’re still evolving. Either way, make sure you place it in context with your other achievements and practical experience.
