With a good cybersecurity course, you can find yourself on your way to a rapidly expanding career in the technology and information management industry. With the exponential rise in information systems and data networks, cybersecurity courses are sought by many who seek to protect businesses, government, and civilian data from hackers. Let’s have a look at the four best institutes where you can study cybersecurity that aligns with your career goals.

Texas A&M University, College Station

Offering a master’s degree in engineering with a specialization in risk management, cyber law, and cybersecurity, this program falls under the university’s excellent College of Engineering. Having received awards from both the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Agency, A&M is ranked among the top engineering schools in the world. With an emphasis on digital ethics and research, the course at this prestigious university is sure to put you on the path of becoming an expert in cybersecurity.

University of Pittsburgh

Offering both a master’s and bachelor’s degrees in information science with specializations in database management, cyber law, and information security, this university is on a shortlist for the top universities that possess five committees on National System Security certificates. So, you know for sure that this is a coveted place to study. The emphasis of the course offered here is on rounded professional development and cyber-crime prevention. Working closely with the School of Computing is the Institute for Cyber Law, Policy, and Security. There are also great research labs where you can further broaden your study.

University of Maryland, College Park

As an undergraduate, you can opt for a bachelor’s degree in computer science with a specialization in cybersecurity here from the Department of Computer Science. It teaches you about cryptology, network security, and operating systems. Alternatively, you can choose to study a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering with a specialization in cybersecurity from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. With strong ties to firms like Cisco, you can find yourself working on various research projects here.

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Here, you can choose to study an engineering minor in cybersecurity with a focus on computer systems and network security. You can also choose a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering that offers inter-disciplinary, technical education with hands-on learning through exercises and labs or the four-course graduate certificate in information assurance. Virginia Tech is also nationally recognized for its non-academic research work and programs in the cybersecurity world.

Anyone interested in learning cybersecurity can do so via a wide range of both free and paid cybersecurity classes online. These courses are offered by known universities and institutions, taught by esteemed faculty, and are available to anyone with an Internet connection. Let’s take a look at the top free and paid cybersecurity classes online that you can choose from.

Free courses
The following free courses are ideal for learning cybersecurity online.

• University of Washington
  This renowned university offers the Building An Information Risk Management Toolkit course taught by Barbara Endicott-Popovsky. The duration of this course is 10 weeks and you will require 4-6 hours per week to complete the course. You will learn about regulatory and legal compliance issues, maintaining and developing risk assessments and risk management plans, risk transfer, creating a control framework to mitigate risks, and disaster recovery planning. It explores a variety of approaches in cybersecurity decision-making.
• National Cybersecurity Institute at Excelsior College
  This esteemed institute provides the Introduction to Cybersecurity course, taught by Gary M. Jackson in a duration of eight weeks. It provides a broad overview of cybersecurity with the standards and laws that govern it. You will be introduced to concepts that surround physical, web, personal, and wireless security, common cyber-attacks, methods to identify, detect, and defend against cyber threats, and the foundational principles for further advanced studies.
• Udemy
  The Cybersecurity Law primer offered here will be of great value to those seeking to learn the ins and outs of cyber threats and security ethics. Another choice is the Cyber Security Course for Beginners – Level 01 for a more in-depth look into this field of study.

Paid Courses

The following paid courses are ideal for learning cybersecurity online.

• Udemy
  This site is extremely cost-effective as many of the courses can be completed at less than $20. The best paid-for courses that you can opt for include The Data Science Course 2020: Complete Data Science Bootcamp and  Cyber Security Crash Course for Beginners: Learn From Scratch. These will not only give you knowledge on the intricacies of computer science but also the foundation you seek for cybersecurity.
• Coursera
  The Cybersecurity Specialization is a short, distance learning online course offered by the University of Maryland on Coursera. It brings the underlying concepts of the construction of secure systems directly to your website browser. It comprises a total of five courses that may take several weeks to see completion. Coursera also offers degrees in either data science or computing and IT.

In the world of higher education, cybersecurity courses are fairly new. Yet these courses are quite in demand across the world. The growth of computer systems and networks has seen a rapid rise in the need for individuals with degrees in this specialized field. Companies look for “ethical hackers” who can help correct digital security flaws before hackers can invade their networks. So, if this is a profession that seems to interest you, the possibilities are limitless.

Below is a list of the four best universities offering cybersecurity courses.

Purdue University

Offering a master’s degree in computer science with specializations in cyber forensics and information security, this internationally acclaimed institute is known for its cybersecurity program. However, you will need a bachelor’s degree in a computer science major to be able to qualify for this degree. Purdue University provides you with on-the-job experience to become an experienced information security specialist with substantial interdisciplinary tactics.

Georgia Institute of Technology

Offering a master’s degree in cybersecurity with specializations in energy systems, information security, and public policy, this program puts special emphasis on practical skills needed to excel in your career. Working closely with the engineering college to integrate applicable coursework, the program offers you the chance to conduct research for the country’s military, government, and private industries. Truly, this university’s wide-reaching connections in this field will be a boon to any prospective student.

Rochester Institute of Technology

The new center for cybersecurity at this university promises to shape you into a cybersecurity expert. The programs offered here include a minor in computing science, a bachelor’s degree in computing security, a master’s degree in computing security, and a combined BS/MS in computing security. Moreover, if you are up for it, you can even choose the Ph.D. program. You will gain access to the Eaton Security Assessment and Forensic Examination Lab, where you can work on current issues in the industry.

University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign

Funded by the CyberCorps®: Scholarship for Service, this university offers varied programs like a bachelor’s degree in electrical and computer engineering, a bachelor’s degree in computer science, a master’s degree or Ph.D. with a concentration in cybersecurity, and a JD with a concentration in cybersecurity. You can even opt for the 15-credit UG certificate in the global security course or the 12-credit graduate certificate in the security course.

Top 4 data science courses offered online
When it comes to data science courses online, you should only learn from the best. After all, this is a field of study that keeps evolving as technology and times progress in the fast-paced 21st century. 

To help you study from the best, we have shortlisted below the top c. Let’s take a look.

• Data Science Specialization – JHU at Coursera
  The curriculum is outstandingly well-balanced, and the specialization offers an entire section on statistics, which is usually missing in many online data science courses. This specialization is the perfect blend of the application of R programming language and theory. The Johns Hopkins University offers multiple courses in data science specialization, including Data Science Capstone, Regression Models, Statistical Inference, Reproducible Research, Exploratory Data Analytics, Getting and Cleaning Data, and The Data Scientist’s Toolbox.
• Applied Data Science with Python Specialization – University of Michigan at Coursera
  The course provides a comprehensive breakdown of how to utilize and evaluate algorithms. It is ideal for anyone who is learning statistical concepts, and the range of courses covered in this specialization include Introduction to Data Science in Python, Applied Social Network Analysis in Python, Applied Text Mining in Python, Applied Machine Learning in Python, and Applied Plotting, Charting & Data Representation in Python. You will also be given an introduction to commonly utilized Python toolkits like pandas, matplotlib, networkx, scikit-learn, and nltk to gain insight into data.
• Master of Information and Data Science – University of California-Berkeley
  If you are looking for a more dedicated and in-depth Master’s program, this online course might be for you. It offers students insights into the real world of data sets and focuses on using analytical methods and the latest tools and approaches to interpret data. The curriculum also helps students understand how data science can be used for decision-making. With a multidisciplinary and robust curriculum, this online data science course focuses on preparing students to creatively solve issues in several domains, like health, social and economic issues.
• Master of Science – Southern Methodist University
  This online Master’s program has an interdisciplinary curriculum to help students understand computer science, ethics, statistics, data visualization, and strategic decision-making. It involves face-to-face classes, group activities, and interactive coursework to provide technical, communication, and analytical skills for making data-driven decisions. Students can complete this course and earn a degree in 2 years or less while also maintaining any other responsibilities.

The lovely holidays have ended, and it is time to return to school. Mixed emotions with high levels of excitement and the sad feeling of having to let go of those super fun summer holidays the range is endless. It is indubitably true that the first few days at school set the stage for the year that is to come. A great way to ease kids out of vacation mode into the class is through various fun back-to-school activities. What better than to add some back-to-school picture books to the lineup. Reading aloud from picture books is a great way to facilitate discussion among kids and encourage them to feel comfortable while sharing their experiences. Moreover, it is a great way to establish the values within the class and create a strong identity.

Here are some back-to-school picture books that will make for a memorable start to the year.

The Name Jar – The Name Jar, written by Yangsook Choi is a beautifully written book that follows the life of a young Korean girl. The little girl goes to an American school and is confused on her first day as she cannot decide on whether she must or must not choose a new name that is easier to pronounce. With lovely and marvelous illustrations, it is sure to get students hooked on as a great back-to-school book. The valuable story revolves around the idea of fitting in while being true to one’s identity.

You’re Finally Here – A book by Melanie Watt, You’re Finally Here is the perfect back-to-school book. It is a great book for teachers to show their students how much they anticipated their arrival at school and the how excited they are. It traces the activities of the bunny through several different emotions and will help students realize the beautiful moment of returning to school.

If You Take a Mouse to School – A silly and fun story, If You Take a Mouse to School is bound to be loved by kids. Written by Laura Numeroff, it is a fabulous way to pave through a systematic teaching sequence. The quirky mouse undertakes several activities at school. From wanting to have the lunch box to needing a note and pencil, the possibilities make for an amusing read.

The list of the above back-to-school books is a great way to soothe the worries of kids as they begin school. Happy reading!

It’s time to go back to school again! This wonderful time of the year triggers a range of emotions among kids as well as parents. Students can find this period overwhelming because of the high levels of excitement for the new semester as well as the difficulty of getting back into a routine after a restful summer break. It is imperative to prepare back-to-school essentials to ensure a smooth transition into the classroom. One of the best ways to ease the students out of their summer break and into school is through the right books. Back-to-school books need not be read exclusively on the first day or the first week of school. They can be treasurable reads to return to throughout the academic year.

Back-to-school books that revolve around the school setting are a great spot to begin. These books will aid in portraying schools as inviting places, thereby preparing your little one emotionally and academically. Here are three books that will strike a chord with your children.

Rain School: Written by James Rumford, Rain School is a picture book that most children adore. This story is set in Chad, Africa and revolves around the concept of younger siblings being led to school by older kids. The narrative also follows the passion of a boy named Thomas who loves to learn. It beautifully sheds light on the difficulties faced by kids as they must build their mud school building that will be taken away by the rainy season. Your little one is bound to be amazed by the determination of these kids.

Back to Front and Upside Down: An excellent work by Claire Alexander, Back to Front and Upside Down portrays the different challenges that students face within the walls of a classroom. This back-to-school book focuses on the ability of Stan who has trouble during an activity conducted in a classroom. He struggles with the formation of letters and is left feeling discouraged. Not only is the book great for kids, but it also helps parents understand the importance of helping kids through their troubles and minimizing the pressure to accomplish tasks.

School’s First Day of School: A lovely narration by Adam Rex, School’s First Day of School is a beautiful back-to-school book as it addresses the nervousness that kids may feel before their big day. The book has intriguing illustrations too. This clever back-to-school book traces the journey of students on the first day of school.

There is no denying that summer is a blissful time when all that you want to do is relax and laze around as you try to recover from the previous stressful school year. However, you cannot escape from the fact that summer is the perfect time that you have in your hand to prep for the coming school year.

Don’t know what to do this summer? Here are six ways in which you can enjoy your summer while preparing your mind and body for the challenging school year that is just around the corner.

Go on an adventure
As they say, there is no classroom out there that is better than traveling. So, pack your bags and follow the call of adventure. The best part about traveling during your summer vacations is that you need not worry about missing work or any other family obligation. Try to plan at least one trip every summer, in which you can see a new place, get a glimpse of a different culture and learn about the life of the locals there, in turn, getting a lifelong learning.

Pursue a new hobby
For those who complain that they don’t get enough time to pursue their hobbies during the school months, they can pursue their passion and join hobby classes.

Enroll for a summer class
Those who feel that the upcoming academic year will be hectic for them because of the advanced classes they are planning to take can consider enrolling themselves for extra summer classes that will help them learn the subject or additional skills in order to perform better in their academics.

Pick a sport
Though you will be very tempted to be lazy in the summer and not work out at all, it is vital that you at least play one sport or go for regular walks that will keep your body healthy and let you not succumb to the sedentary lifestyle.

Join a cause
It is rightly said that the more you give, the more you get. Volunteering is not just a great way to pass your time, but it also enhances your people skill and many times helps you find new interests that who knows might someday turn into a career?

Earn some extra bucks
Summer is also the perfect time to work hard and earn some extra income that you can utilize for shopping for your new year school outfit or simply to manage your other expenses. Apply for part time jobs in advance so that you can find the perfect job before the summer even begins.

Preparing for the school year ahead need not necessarily be finishing all the books that you are meant to read in the course to ace your classes, sometimes it simply means making the most of your summer doing interesting things, so that when you are back to school, you are proactive and ready for the academic year.

Most students will have their classes starting at the end of August; this makes August a great month to buy school essentials at discounted rates as the month comes with numerous back-to-school sales. You can easily find everything from traditional school supplies to tech supplies available on sale. However, shopping for sale products from the right places is important to get the best deals on back-to-school tech supplies. Below are some tech essentials available on back-to-school sales.

Laptop Samsung Chromebook 3
The Samsung Chromebook 3 is a suitable laptop for everyone from elementary school to college. It is a small and sturdy laptop that provides a quick and seamless access to Google’s host of services that include Gmail, Drive, Docs, and much more. The specifications of this laptop include 1.6GHz N3060 CPU, 16GB eMMC, and 4GB RAM. You can buy this laptop on many back-to-school sales where it is available for approximately $194.

Service Amazon Prime Student
The Amazon Prime Student service is available on back-to-school sale for approximately $59 a year. With a Prime membership, students can access free shipping on all products from Amazon. Additionally, members of Amazon Prime Student get access to all the Prime membership perks at half the cost of traditional Prime membership. They also get around $100 off on Amazon’s back-to-school sale.

Headphones with Mac Free Beats headphones on purchasing MacBook
The annual back-to-school sale by The Apple Store is back with approximately $200 off on select MacBook purchases, which come with complimentary Beats Solo3 Wireless headphones. Some other stores like Best Buy offer MacBook Air on sale for approximately $749 to students who have a valid ‘.edu’ e-mail. However, complimentary headphones do not come with offers other than the ones provided by The Apple Store.

Smartphone Moto G6
Moto G6 is one of the budget smartphones that run on GSM and CDMA networks, which allows its users to use the phone of any carrier. The phone comes with a colorful display of 5.7-inch, fingerprint sensor, dual rear cameras, and Snapdragon 450 processor. On back-to-school sales, you can buy this phone for approximately $235.

Surge Protector Belkin power strip
A surge protector may not be on the top of your list of back-to-school tech essentials; however, it is an important device that many people, including college students, may require on a daily basis. If you are looking for a new surge protector, you can consider purchasing the Belkin power strip that comes with 12-outlet protector with enough space between each plug and an 8-foot long cord. You can buy this product for approximately $19 on various back-to-school sales.

Everyone secretly wishes to start their new school year as a fresh chapter of their school life, which also in a way means that they wish to revamp their previous fashion style and embrace something new.

Are you also wanting to get a complete makeover before the first day at school but are confused where to begin from and how to reach your goal? If yes, then don’t fret, here are five simple steps to having a major makeover during the summer.

Introspect
The first thing to do once you decide that you need a makeover is to understand what kind of makeover you are looking for. Do you wish to be more experimental with your clothes? Or do you want to gain more confidence and work on being content in your own skin? Once you have introspected, you can outline a plan for how you are going to achieve your goal during the summer.

Clear your wardrobe
The first thing to do if you have decided to change your fashion style is to dig through your wardrobe and discard the clothes that you are probably never going to wear again. While you are at it, you will get a good idea of what clothes you are comfortable wearing and what kind of clothes you would like to add to your wardrobe. You can either consider selling your old clothes or simply donate them to a charity.

Go shopping
Once you have cleared your wardrobe, buy some new pieces that you can wear stand alone or the ones that compliment your current wardrobe. Try to buy some trendy pieces and some items from the vintage boutiques, so that you can mix them together and enhance your style. If you can’t afford to buy high-end brands, then find out a thrift shop in your locality and rummage through their collection.

Create your own style
You don’t need to always buy new clothes to look different. Many times, just by adding some accessories and wearing a dress in a different way, you can make it seem like you have changed your dressing style. Don’t shy away from mixing your clothing items and experimenting every single day.

Reinvent yourself
What many school-going girls and boys fail to understand is that getting a makeover is much more than changing your appearance. Instead of aiming for just looking different on your first day of school, you should have a holistic approach. Try to spend some time on yourself and master the art of being confident in yourself.

Just keep in mind that summer is the best time to experiment and get the dramatic change that you always longed for. So, rediscover yourself and learn to be confident in your own skin.

With the holidays coming to an end and the new academic year finally beginning, school-going kids might have a mixed feeling of sadness and excitement. Back-to-school sales on school supplies, backpacks, clothing, and computer electronics can add to their excitement. Here are some popular back-to-school deals offered by popular stores.

Academy Sports + Outdoors
Those looking for an athletic gear can shop from Academy Sports + Outdoors as they are offering some of the best back-to-school sales on brands like Nike, Under Armour, BCG, adidas, Layer8, Cheetah, and Soffe. There are sales on football equipment as well, which you can find on the company’s official website. Additionally, you will find a sale on back-to-school essentials that include school uniforms, bags, notebooks, and other stationery.

Amazon
Amazon provides competitive offers on back-to-school products through coupons. You can go to their coupons page to find all products including back-to-school supplies and click on “clip coupon” to purchase a product at a discounted rate. Products on back-to-school sales such as backpacks, pencil cases, and organizers are available at up to 15% discount on the website. Moreover, you can go to Amazon’s back-to-school and off-to-college pages to find the related products on sale.

Kohl’s
Students of all ages, from kindergarten to college can find clothes on Kohl’s official website. During the back-to-school season, Kohl’s offers great deals that include backpacks available on sale for less than $20, juniors and kids clearance jeans starting from less than $10, adidas products available at approximately 25% off, and school uniforms available at a starting price of around $10. On their official website, the company also provides discount codes for back-to-school products.

Office Depot
At Office Depot, you can find back-to-school sales on not only traditional school supplies like notebooks, calculators, and stationery but also technology gear such as laptops, tablets, and pen drives. You can also find a sale on school supplies for different grades under the ‘School Supplies’ section on the website.

Target
You can shop for school supplies, clothing, dorm dcor, and almost everything from your back-to-school shopping list at great prices on Target’s website. Some back-to-school discounts offered by Target include T-shirts starting at around $4, jeans at around $8, approximately 20% discount on backpacks, and school supplies available for around 99 cents.