Cybersecurity Accelerator Program
Fully funded, virtual short-term internship to gain experience and credentials to launch a career in the cybersecurity industry
Whether you’re already knowledgeable about the cybersecurity industry, or you’re a “cyber-curious” learner eager to explore opportunities in this growing industry, the Cybersecurity Accelerator Program is a way to gain skills, credentials and connections that can lead to a rewarding job and career.
Available at no-cost to selected students, you will undertake a remote-based, short-term (4-5 week), “micro-internship” between February 27 and March 30. Participants receive a financial stipend for completing this project-based internship, along with Teach to Work trained project-based mentorship and training to build skills.
Projects are offered in a range of roles, including technical solutions and non-technical roles, such as policy, ethics and legal. You are NOT required to have previous experience in coding or other technical skills. Pre-program Cyber Discovery Experience will also support resume writing and other skills to help navigate the industry.
Participation at the in-person Cybersecurity Bootcamp is also included in the program. Held in Washington, D.C. from March 31 to April 2, and developed in partnership with The Cyber Guild, this event will bring together students, employers, and cybersecurity industry leaders for networking and learning. Costs including travel, room and board, are covered for eligible students to attend the in-person program.
Program Components
Program Application – Deadline Jan. 25, 2023: While the application process is currently closed, please visit our Programs Page for information other experiential learning opportunities.
Pre-Program Cyber Discovery Experience – Upon Acceptance February 2023: Support and training to help refine resumes and hone skills that will be relevant to project success.
Virtual Micro-Internship – Feb. 27–March 30, 2023 (flexible): You’ll complete a short-term (4-5 weeks), virtual, project-based internship for a cybersecurity employer. You will receive a financial stipend, work with an employer supervisor and access Teach to Work trained project-based mentorship.
In-Person Cybersecurity Bootcamp – March 31-April 2, 2023: Program participants, employers and cybersecurity industry leaders will gather in-person for career exploration, networking and professional development. Travel, room and board and other expenses are covered for eligible students.
Credential for Future Success: Developed in collaboration with The Cyber Guild, students who successfully complete the Cybersecurity Accelerator Program will be awarded a credential to serve as recognition on their resume and employment search of the skills gained.
A Commitment to Access, Equity and Inclusion
TWC recognizes that diversity brings innovation and creativity to the workplace and encourages fresh perspectives. Specific to Cybersecurity, the complex problems that the industry tackles demand diverse approaches. As such, we are committed to shaping the future of the Cybersecurity workforce so that it is representative of the full diversity across the U.S. and allows inclusion and belonging for talent of all backgrounds and lived experience.
Students attending Minority Serving Institutions (MSI), such as Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU), Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI) and Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCU), are encouraged to apply.
Housing and Living
During the Cybersecurity Bootcamp held in the nation’s capital, you’ll stay in TWC’s furnished intern housing in NoMa, a cosmopolitan neighborhood full of unique restaurants and nightlife.
You’ll be within walking distance of the National Mall and the best that D.C. has to offer (not to mention essentials like grocery stores and the Metro).
Eligibility
To be eligible to participate in this program, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Be enrolled in undergraduate or graduate coursework. Recent graduates may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
- Be in good standing at your college or university.
- Be fully vaccinated prior to your arrival in Washington, D.C. per our vaccination policy.
This program is specifically designed as a career accelerator for historically marginalized and neurodiverse populations. Students from these groups are especially encouraged to apply:
- Women
- Veterans
- LGBTQ+
- First-generation students
- Persons with disabilities
- Neurodiverse individuals
- Low-income individuals (as measured by Pell Grant eligibility)
- Individuals from historically marginalized racial and ethnic backgrounds
- Students who attend Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Hispanic Serving Institutions, ANNAPISIs, Tribal Colleges and other MSIs
Dates and Deadlines
Application Deadline: Wednesday, January 25, 2023 – Applications are not being accepted at this time. Please visit our Programs Page for information on additional experiential learning opportunities.
Micro-Internship Dates: February 27 – March 30, 2023 (flexible, depending on project needs)
Accelerator Weekend: March 31 – April 2, 2023
How to Apply
The application for the Cybersecurity Accelerator Program has closed. To learn more about future offerings of this and related programs, sign up below.
Application Documents
Below are the documents requested to submit with applications to the Cybersecurity Accelerator Program. Please note that your One-page Resumé, Statement of Professional Interest and Unofficial Transcript must be saved as PDFs in order to upload them.
One-page Resumé: Outline your educational background and include experiences like volunteer opportunities, leadership roles on campus, honors and awards. See our resume guide and view sample resumes.
Statement of Professional Interest: In 100-250 words, share the goals you have for yourself in doing a cybersecurity internship. How are you hoping to develop yourself and what skills and experiences will help you achieve all of this? Note: the skills you bring to this program may be technical, but could also be broader, like relationship building, communication, commitment to learning, or professionalism.
Unofficial Transcript: Upload your transcript directly into the application. While previous cybersecurity-related coursework is not required, your transcript will help us learn more about your academic experience.
Academic Credit
This program may qualify for academic credit at your school. However, credits are determined and awarded by each university, and you are responsible for arranging any academic credit through your college or university.