SANS Bachelors Program Review
tl;dr
Yes it’s worth it
You get 6+ useful GIAC certs
You get a BS in Cybersecurity
Remote/on-demand lectures
When I enrolled in the SANS Technology Institute (SANS.edu) Bachelor's Degree in Cybersecurity, I knew I was signing up for a challenging and hands-on learning experience. What I didn’t fully anticipate was just how intense and fast-paced the program would be—especially while working full-time.
A Hands-On, Industry-Focused Curriculum
Unlike traditional degree programs that focus heavily on theory, SANS delivers practical, real-world cybersecurity training. The courses are designed by industry professionals, ensuring that what you learn is immediately applicable to the field.
Throughout the program, I completed multiple GIAC certifications, which served as both coursework and final exams. By the time I graduated, I had earned:
- GCPN (GIAC Cloud Penetration Tester)
- GPEN (GIAC Penetration Tester)
- GCIA (GIAC Certified Intrusion Analyst)
- GPYC (GIAC Python Coder)
- GCIH (GIAC Certified Incident Handler)
Each of these certifications covered specialized cybersecurity disciplines, from penetration testing and cloud security to incident response and network forensics. These weren’t just academic exercises—they were directly relevant to real-world security operations.
The Two-Month Course Format: Fast-Paced and Demanding
One of the most unique aspects of the program was its compressed timeline. Each course lasted only two months, followed by a GIAC certification exam as the final. This format meant:
- There was zero room for procrastination. From day one, you had to stay on top of labs, lectures, and study materials.
- You had to juggle work and coursework efficiently—especially since GIAC exams require serious preparation.
- The learning curve was steep, but the payoff was worth it.
Biggest Takeaway: Mastering Time Management
If I had to pinpoint the most valuable skill I developed during the program, it would be time management. Balancing full-time work with a SANS degree was no joke. Success required:
- A strict study schedule—Cramming wasn’t an option; consistent effort was the only way to keep up.
- Prioritizing hands-on labs—SANS courses are designed for practical learning, so spending time on labs was critical.
- Planning for the GIAC exams—Since each class culminated in a certification test, I had to start exam prep weeks in advance.
Final Verdict: Is the SANS Bachelor's Worth It?
Absolutely. The SANS Bachelor's Degree program isn’t for everyone—it’s fast, demanding, and requires serious dedication. But if you’re looking for practical, career-focused cybersecurity education with industry-recognized certifications, it’s one of the best investments you can make.
Would I do it again? Yes.
Would I recommend it? Only if you're ready to commit to the grind and embrace the challenge.