IT Workforce Certificate Programs and Courses
Columbus State offers non-credit IT workforce certificate programs and individual courses in the following high-demand areas: Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Data Analytics.
Certificate programs include multiple courses delivered through a mix of online coursework and virtual, real-time instruction. These certificate programs are designed for working adults with some background in information technology. They are also ideal for individuals seeking to reskill or upskill in IT-related fields. Each certificate program is designed to prepare individuals for in-demand jobs by helping them build relevant, employer-desired skills.
- Non-credit training: These programs build job-ready skills but do not grant college credit.
- Cohort model: Courses are offered sequentially, allowing students to progress together as a group. Individual course registration is also available.
- Flexible format: All classes meet weekly in a Live Online format via Zoom, with sessions recorded for later viewing.
- Instructor support: Study sessions are held virtually via Zoom, and scheduled early in the program based on student and instructor availability.
Register for an online information session:
Upcoming Offerings
Autumn 2026
Artificial Intelligence (30 weeks)
Program Dates: October 7, 2026 - May 26, 2027
Class Meeting Time: Wednesdays 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Register for the first course: Intro to AI. Course Code: WIIT-7810
*Test out option available for Intro to AI course. Course Code: WIIT-7811 Cost: $80
Total Program Cost: $2,600
Cybersecurity (34-weeks)
Program Dates: October 13, 2026 - July 13, 2027
Class Meeting Time: Tuesdays 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Register for the first course: Database/SQL. Course Code: WIIT-7730
Total Program Cost: $3,595
Spring 2027
Microcredential Course in Python Fundamentals
Course Dates: January 14, 2027 - March 4, 2027 (8-weeks)
Course Code: WIIT-7740
Data Analytics (35 weeks) $3,100
Program Dates: January 14, 2027 - October 7, 2027
Class Meeting Time: Thursdays 6-8:30 PM
Register for the first course: Applied Statistics. Course Code: WIIT-7750
Artificial Intelligence (30 weeks)
Program Dates: February 17, 2027 - September 29, 2027
Class Meeting Time: Wednesdays 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Register for the first course: Intro to AI. Course Code: WIIT-7810
Test out option available for Intro to AI course. Course Code: WIIT-7811 Cost: $80
Total Program Cost: $2,600
Cybersecurity (34 weeks) $3,595
Program Dates: March 9, 2027 - November 16, 2027
Class Meeting Time: Tuesdays 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Register for the first course: Database/SQL. Course Code: WIIT-7730
Total Program Cost: $3,595
Looking to build your digital skills and gain confidence in using technology? The Digital Skills Bootcamp offers comprehensive no-cost training classes covering essential computer skills, including Google applications, internet search, cybersecurity, and more.
Next Steps
- Review specific program details. Navigate to the each program on the right side of this webpage.
- Review our most Frequently Asked Questions about time commitments, program requirements, and financial assistance.
- Follow the Instant Enrollment Guide for registration instructions. Note: Registration opening dates vary by program.
Employer sponsored students and employers interested in offering these programs as a professional development opportunity for their workforce: Email: acceleratedtraining@cscc.edu
All other questions: Email acceleratedtraining@cscc.edu or contact the Noncredit Registration Office: 614-287-5858
Our Programs
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity professionals are the first line of defense in ensuring the confidentiality,
integrity, and availability of digital information. Columbus State offers two unique
cybersecurity programs:
Cybersecurity: The traditional 34-week Cybersecurity Certificate is designed to provide a broad introduction to the field of cybersecurity. This program expands upon the content covered in the Network Intensive Cybersecurity Certificate with additional coursework in database, Linux, and Python fundamentals.
Network Intensive Cybersecurity Program: Network Intensive Cybersecurity Certificate is an accelerated 8-week program that meets two days per week and is designed to prepare students for the SSCP Certification Exam. This program is recommended for individuals with prior IT experience.
Data Analytics
Data analytics professionals combine qualitative and quantitative data and critical
thinking techniques to organize and collect data, describe behaviors and processes,
prescribe objective decision-making, and predict trends and outcomes.
This 35-week program begins with essentials in computer science, followed by coursework with a specific focus on data analytics in relevant business scenarios. This program equips students with practical, foundation-level skills in data analytics through a hands-on approach.
DevOps
Information Technology (IT) systems management and software development professionals
are relied upon to develop and maintain resilient solutions using emerging cloud technologies.
This 12-week program is intended for individuals with pre-requisite knowledge of basic IT software development technologies, including basic programming, simple code versioning, and basic software configuration. Currently available to Nationwide associates only.
Software Development
Today’s businesses count on highly trained software developers who can keep pace with
the company's needs.
This 48-week certificate program is designed to help you become a Java developer. Students begin by learning the fundamentals of programming logic and advance to building complex programs with Java and cloud technologies. Currently available to Nationwide associates only.
AWS Academy
In addition to the IT Workforce Certificate, Columbus State’s also offers additional
non-credit AWS Academy courses
Artificial Intelligence IT Certificate
Columbus State Community College’s Introduction to AI is a flexible, noncredit program designed to grow in-demand skills and experience for application in the digital economy.