Cybersecurity: Ethical Hacking Fundamentals

Explore the Hacker Mindset—Ethically. 

Weaknesses in network configurations, ports, protocols, and services, as well as poor software coding practices, enable hackers and persistent threat actors to exploit systems and assets to establish command and control (C2).  Ethical hackers need to understand these risks, attack vectors/surfaces, and methods to communicate findings to cybersecurity service providers (CSSPs). 

Cybersecurity: Ethical Hacking Fundamentals, an application-focused course created by Jason Crossland, a senior cybersecurity APL engineer at the Applied Physics Laboratory, provides a unique, inside-out view of defending real-world systems through ethical hacking and defensive cybersecurity training online.

This is the first course in Johns Hopkins Engineering’s three-part Introduction to Ethical Hacking certificate program. Designed for learners at all levels, this course delivers a practical, immersive introduction to ethical hacking. You will explore how real-world adversaries think and operate—and how ethical hackers use the same tools and techniques to defend against them.

This Cybersecurity: Ethical Hacking Fundamentals course follows an industry-standard hacking methodology and builds critical skills across the entire hacking lifecycle—from reconnaissance to exploitation and post-access activities. 

You’ll also study real-world case studies and learn the motives, behaviors, and ethical frameworks that define responsible hacking.  Additionally, you’ll be informed of the purpose of PenTest reports and learn foundational principles of cryptography, information gathering, and social engineering.  Whether you’re transitioning into cybersecurity, preparing for industry certifications, or simply curious about how hackers breach digital defenses, this course provides an essential foundation.

Who Is This Course For?

• Aspiring Cybersecurity Pros
• Network Administrators
• IT Security Specialists
• IT Support Specialists
• Compliance Auditors
• Security Consultants

Acquire Essential Skills in Ethical Hacking

Designed by JHU Faculty, this course delves into advanced decision tree learning techniques, equipping learners with the skills to tackle complex classification and regression challenges. Key skills include:

• Cryptography Fundamentals
• Threat Analysis and Psychology
• Penetration Testing Methods
• Technical Security Concepts
• Security Assessment & Reporting

Built for Cybersecurity Practitioners

Flexible Format

Benefit from an asynchronous, self-paced learning journey, featuring engaging video walkthroughs and recorded sessions by Johns Hopkins University faculty.

Engaging Materials

Learn at your own pace with engaging and helpful learning materials such as video lectures, relevant readings, and case studies.

Dedicated Program Support

Johns Hopkins University faculty are readily accessible to address your questions directly through the course platform, ensuring personalized guidance and a seamless learning experience.

Projects & Case Studies

Case-based activities that help you demonstrate competence and enable reskilling and upskilling.

Course Delivery and Support

Johns Hopkins University is collaborating with online education provider Great Learning to offer the Cybersecurity Fundamentals course. Great Learning collaborates with institutions to manage enrollments (including all payment services and invoicing) and technology.