CDTI’s Cyber Defense Operations Program is designed for students who are ready to learn technical cybersecurity skills in a structured, hands-on environment.

Applicants should:

Be at least 18 years old or have written approval from a parent or legal guardian

  • Have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent

  • Have basic computer-use skills

  • Be able to read and understand technical material in English

  • Have reliable transportation or the ability to attend scheduled classes

  • Agree to follow CDTI’s ethical-use, attendance, and student-conduct policies

  • Must pass basic competency test

Previous cybersecurity experience is not required.

Admission Requirements

Enrollment Process

1. Submit an Application

Complete the CDTI contact form with your information, and program interests. Or walk into the physical location during open hours of Monday and Tuesday 2pm to 4pm.

2. Speak With CDTI

CDTI will contact you to discuss the program, schedule, tuition, and career goals.

3. Review Program Documents

Before enrolling, students will review:

  • Program catalog

  • Enrollment Agreement

  • Tuition and fee information

  • Refund and cancellation policy

  • Attendance policy

  • Student conduct requirements

  • Graduation and completion requirements

4. Sign the Enrollment Agreement

Admission is not complete until the student signs the Enrollment Agreement and CDTI accepts the enrollment.

5. Pay the Enrollment Fee

A $300 non-refundable enrollment fee is required to reserve a seat.

6. Prepare for Class

Accepted students will receive information about:

  • Class schedule

  • Required books

  • Computer and software setup

  • ShadowNet Cyber Range access

  • First-day instructions

Cyber Defense Operations Program Schedule

The 9-month evening program for the Cyber Defense Operation schedule is:

Monday and Wednesday

  • 6:30 PM–7:30 PM: Lecture

  • 7:30 PM–8:00 PM: Break

  • 8:00 PM–10:00 PM: Hands-on lab

Pending Daytime Schedule

A daytime class schedule may be offered beginning January 11, 2027, depending on instructor availability and final enrollment planning.

If offered, the planned daytime schedule will be:

Monday and Tuesday

  • 10:00 AM–1:30 PM

  • Includes a 30-minute lunch

Please note: The daytime schedule is not currently guaranteed. Final availability will be confirmed before enrollment.

Cybersecurity Training & CompTIA Security+ Prep Schedule

The 3-month evening schedule for the Cybersecurity Training & CompTIA Security+ Prep program is:

Tuesday and Thursday

  • 6:30 PM–7:30 PM: Lecture

  • 7:30 PM–8:00 PM: Break

  • 8:00 PM–10:00 PM: Hands-On ShadowNet Lab & Security+ Training

Ethical Hacking Club Admissions

The CDTI Ethical Hacking Club is a separate hands-on membership program for people who want to practice ethical hacking skills in a controlled lab environment using the ShadowNet Cyber Range.

Club Schedule

  • Fridays: 6:00 PM–7:30 PM

  • 30-minute belt lesson

  • 60-minute hands-on ShadowNet lab

Membership

  • $75 per month

  • Active membership holds your seat

  • Members progress through the White, Yellow, Blue, Red, and Black Belt system

What Members Do

  • Ethical hacking labs

  • Reconnaissance, scanning, and enumeration

  • Controlled attack-and-defense exercises

  • Capture-the-Flag activities

  • Cybersecurity challenges and competitions

  • Hands-on practice inside the ShadowNet range

Admission

No previous cybersecurity experience is required to start at the White Belt level. Prospective members should contact CDTI to schedule a short in-person meeting before joining.

Please note:

The Ethical Hacking Club is for hands-on cybersecurity practice and community activities. It is not a certification-preparation program, job-training program, career-placement service, or guarantee of employment.

Tuition Assistance Options
Ethical Hacking Club Info