Short-Term IT Certificate Programs - Now Hiring

Looking to launch or grow a career in IT—without the time or cost of a full degree? Columbus State Community College's Short-Term IT Certificate programs are non-credit, so you can build job-ready skills in as little as 30–35 weeks, at a fraction of the cost of the same courses taken for college credit. Gain hands-on experience, build a portfolio, and complete a real-world capstone project—all with real employer demand in Central Ohio. 

Program Features 

Non-credit training: Build job-ready skills without earning college credit—these programs cost significantly less than the same coursework taken as part of an associate degree. 
Cohort model: Courses are offered sequentially, allowing students to progress together as a group. 
Flexible format: 100% online classes meet weekly via Zoom, with sessions recorded for later viewing—built to fit around the schedules of working adults. 
Instructor support: Study sessions are held virtually, via Zoom, based on student and instructor availability.  

Upcoming Programs:   

Cybersecurity (34-weeks) September 15 – June 15, 2027, $3,595 (Each course billed separately)   
Be the front line of digital defense: safeguard networks, systems, and data 

Upon completion, you'll earn a microcredential in Python Fundamentals, and prepared to take the optional ISC2 Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) certification exam.  

What You'll Learn 

• Querying databases using SQL  

• Managing and protecting Linux systems  

• Understanding networking fundamentals and secure communication protocols  

• Scripting with Python for automation and security tasks  

• Implementing security controls for confidentiality, integrity, and availability  

• Applying real-world defensive strategies via a culminating SSCP-aligned capstone project 

Who Should Enroll 

• IT professionals seeking a transition into cybersecurity  

• Career changers looking to enter a high-growth field  

• Students pursuing SSCP certification and foundational cybersecurity roles  

• Individuals interested in security operations, system protection, and threat mitigation.  

Artificial Intelligence Certificate (30 weeks) October 7th – May 26, 2027, $2,600 (Each course billed separately)   

What You’ll Learn 

Practical experience applying:  

• Computer Vision  

• Generative AI  

• Natural Language Processing  

Strengthen your understanding of mathematical, statistical, and logical reasoning, and complete a capstone project and learning portfolio to demonstrate your ability to apply AI solutions to real-world problems. 

Who Should Enroll  

• Students with a working knowledge of Relational Databases, SQL, and Python programming.  

• Students who have completed Columbus State’s IT certificate programs in Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, or Software Development — or have equivalent certifications, degrees or experience. 

Ready to Get Started?  

Email:     

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