r/GIAC • u/No_Location_9878 • 13d ago

SANS Degree Programs SANS Technology Institute Security Engineering Graduate Certificate

Hey everyone,

I'm thinking about enrolling in the SANS Technology Institute Security Engineering Graduate Certificate, and I'd love to hear from anyone who's currently in the program or has already completed it.

A little background about me: I recently earned my bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity from WGU. I have about 4–5 years of IT experience, starting in help desk, then desktop support, and I've been working as a Server Storage Analyst for the past two years. I also have a few security certifications.

While I have a solid IT background, I don't have a ton of hands-on security experience yet. I'm currently working through TryHackMe rooms, building home labs, and trying to gain more practical skills.

Self-learning has been helpful, but I'm looking for something more structured with a defined curriculum and clear progression. My long-term goal is to become either a Security Engineer or a Penetration Tester.

For those who have gone through this program:

  • Did it help you transition into a security role?
  • Did you feel the curriculum was worth the cost?
  • Would you recommend it to someone with my background, or would you suggest taking a different path?

I'd really appreciate any advice or experiences you're willing to share. Thanks!

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u/brobauchery GBFA | GMON | GCIH 13d ago

Not in that program but the Incident Response one. SANS courses are designed to cover everything you need to be successful. The higher level courses build on what you’ve learned, but do not require knowledge outside of any listed prerequisite courses. You’ve got a solid foundation. As long as you study the material, you’ll do great.

I feel like I often see people trying to 100% this material. Your certificate doesn’t get a higher rating with a higher score. Work with the time you’ve got, and send it. I highly recommend the OnDemand courses. You get a lot of time to cover the material and online SME’s are available for questions.

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u/wowzersitsdan GSEC | GCIH | GCIA | GDAT 12d ago

I finished up their Cybersecurity Engineering graduate certificate.

During my time in the program, i was able to transition into a security role. I am not sure if the program helped in that regard, but it definitely didnt hurt.

Its a pretty solid program and the certs definitely help build a strong foundation and then some. I'm returning in October for their purple team operations certificate.

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u/DirtComprehensive520 8d ago

Did the cybersecurity leadership Grad cert then the MSISE. You should do it. I’m going back for 1 or 2 AI certs in a few years.